Putnam County deputy on paid leave after shooting and killing disabled veteran

EATONTON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A Putnam County Sheriff’s deputy is on paid leave after shooting and killing a disabled veteran Wednesday night.

Sheriff Howard Sills says they received a call around 11:00 p.m. from 26 year-old Marquez Davis. He was in a car with 57 year-old Harry Davis and 27 year-old Lonnie Davis. Harry and Lonnie were father and son. Marquez had no relation to either. Marquez complained about a fight between Harry and Lonnie. A deputy pulled the car over at the intersection of Oconee Springs Road and GA Highway 16.

Sheriff Sills explained the deputy called for backup when he realized the fight between Harry and Lonnie was escalating. Two more deputies arrived on scene. Sheriff Sills said Harry pulled a large military-style knife from the car and came toward Deputy Justin Brock. Deputy Brock ordered Harry to drop the knife, but he didn’t. Deputy Brock shot and killed Harry after he lunged at him with the weapon.

The GBI is investigating the shooting. Sheriff Sills said Deputy Brock served the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office for 12 years. He is on paid leave pending the investigation. The other two deputies are on active duty. 

Sheriff Sills said there is indication that it may have been a suicide by cop situation. He adds Harry was a disabled veteran who suffered from mental problems associated with his military service. He recalls deputies responding to the Davis residence in February for a similar disturbance.