Lawrenceville, Georgia – The Gwinnett County Police Department has requested the GBI to investigate a police response to a domestic dispute which resulted in an officer shooting a 16 year old male subject.

Initial information provided to the GBI indicates that at approximately 3:40 PM, Gwinnett Police Officers were dispatched to the Sugar Mill Apartments at 855 Walther Blvd in Lawrenceville, Georgia concerning a 911 call from the 16 year old’s stepfather. The stepfather reported to 911 that he had spoken to his 16 year old stepson by phone and he was threatening his siblings at their residence. The stepfather was on his way to the residence as he was making the 911 call.  As the stepfather arrived at the residence, he again called 911 and reported that the 16 year old was armed with a knife and had cut one of the siblings. Gwinnett Police Officer K. E. Williams, 29, arrived and was met by the stepfather and the 16 year old, who was armed with a knife. Officer Williams gave numerous commands for the 16 year old to drop the knife. The 16 year old reportedly advanced toward Officer Williams as he backed away shouting commands.  As the 16 year old continued to close the distance between himself and the officer, the officer shot him causing him to stop and fall to the ground. The officers on the scene provided medical attention for the 16 year old and he was transported to Gwinnett Medical Center (GMC) for treatment where he is listed in critical condition.

The GBI is conducting an independent investigation to determine what occurred during the incident. Once the GBI completes the investigation, the results will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for any action that they deem appropriate. 

Contact Information:

Scott Dutton (404) 270-8330