The following is a press release from the GBI:

Eastman, Georgia – On Saturday, August 13, 2016, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was requested to investigate the shooting death of Patrolman Tim Smith, age 31, of the Eastman Police Department.

Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 9:30 p.m., Dodge County 911 received a call for a suspicious person near the intersection of Smith and Main Street in Eastman, GA.  Officer Smith arrived in the area and encountered an individual.  Officer Smith exited his patrol car to investigate and was shot by the individual.  Officer Smith returned gunfire and the individual fled the scene.

Officer Smith was transported to an area hospital where he died.  Agents and police are actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the shooter.

This investigation is active and ongoing.  Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI office at 478-374-6988.