Millen, GA –  On Tuesday, June 20, 2017, at approximately 9:00 AM, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation responded to the scene of an officer involved shooting at the request of the Jenkins County Sheriff’s Office.

Preliminary information from law enforcement agencies indicates that at approximately 8:40 AM, the Jenkins County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in Millen, Jenkins County, GA in reference to an individual with a firearm.  Deputies made contact with 35 year-old Jack Travis Bethel outside an adjacent residence belonging to Bethel’s parents.  Bethel was reportedly standing by a vehicle with a long gun laying on the hood.  Bethel was instructed not to pick up the gun, but he did not comply.  During the confrontation, Bethel was shot in the arm by an officer.  EMS responded for medical treatment and transported Bethel to Augusta University Medical Center.  Bethel was treated for his injuries and released to the custody of the Jenkins County Sheriff’s Office.  No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

The GBI will conduct an independent investigation to determine what occurred during the incident.  When the investigation is complete, it will be turned over to the Ogeechee District Attorney's Office for any action they deem appropriate.

Bill Bodrey - Special Agent in Charge | Statesboro | 912/871-1121