Columbia County deputy killed, another seriously injured in shooting
Investigators say three deputies were attempting to serve a Temporary Protective Order warrant against suspect, James Blake Montgomery, during the traffic stop. According to WSAV's sister station WJBF in Augusta, the Columbia County Sheriff Clay Whittle held a press conference saying suspect James Blake Montgomery was initially cooperative and that as the three deputies turned to walk back to their vehicle, Montgomery opened fire with a 9mm AR Pistol.
Deputy Brandon Sikes was shot and killed in the incident. Deputy Gavin White was shot in the face. Columbia County officers then engaged Montgomery as he attempted to flee in an RV, veering off the interstate and into a wire barrier. The incident closed a section of I-20 for several hours.
Sheriff Whittle stated White is in critical condition, but has been able to communicate, saying he has a long road to recovery. Sikes is survived by his wife, Amber, who is also an employee of the Sheriff's Office.
Montgomery is confirmed to be deceased. When investigators searched his RV, they found pipe bombs, bomb making materials, numerous guns and ammunition. Jars of unidentified liquid were also found inside the motor home. Sheriff Whittle stated that Montgomery was involved in the selling of illegal steroids.
Deputies Andrew Brown and Jared Mason both returned fire. When Brown noticed White had been shot, he transported him to a local hospital.
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