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The driver of the motor home also died in the incident.
James Blake Montgomery was pulled over Saturday evening on
Interstate 20 near Augusta by deputies who tried to serve a
temporary protective order for a domestic violence case.
Montgomery at first appeared cooperative, but produced a fully
automatic pistol when two of the deputies turned away, Columbia
County Sheriff Clay Whittle said at a briefing.
“He fired on three deputies from the sheriff’s office, striking
two of them,” Whittle said.
Killed at the scene was Deputy Brandon Sikes, who had been with
the sheriff’s office since 2018. He is survived by his wife, who
also works for the sheriff’s office.
Deputy Gavin White was shot in the face and was in critical
condition. White was in surgery Sunday, according to the
sheriff.
Other deputies were able to return fire. Montgomery was found
dead inside the motor home. An autopsy was scheduled.
Investigators found pipe bombs inside the vehicle, including one
rigged with a remote switch. They also found more guns, Whittle
said.
Helicopters and drones were in the air as part of the effort to
capture Montgomery, the deputies said.
Gov. Brian Kemp issued a statement on X about the shooting late
Saturday.
“Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the loved ones and
colleagues of the Columbia County sheriffs deputy that has
fallen in the line of duty, as well as his fellow law
enforcement officer injured tonight while protecting his fellow
Georgians,” Kemp said. “As they remain in our hearts and
prayers, we’re also painfully reminded of why those who wear a
badge have more than earned our enduring respect and
appreciation.”
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