Perry, GA – On Sunday, May 6, 2018, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) was requested by the Houston County Sheriff's Office to investigate an officer involved shooting related to a murder in Cordele.

James L. Smith was wanted for the shooting death of Shawna Ware, 31, and the shooting of Sheena Jones, 33 that occured on Saturday, May 5, 2018. Jones survived the shooting, but was in critical condition at the Medical Center of Central Georgia. Smith, 39, had outstanding arrest warrants for murder and aggravated assault.

During the investigation it was determined that Smith had fled Cordele after the shooting and had checked in to the Scottish Inn motel located in Perry.  The Houston County Sheriff's Office SWAT team was activated.  At approximately 4:50 a.m., the SWAT team attempted to enter the motel room.  Smith was alone inside and began firing at the officers.  Two officers returned fire during the shooting.  A ballistic shield utilized by the SWAT team was struck twice by bullets fired by Smith.  The SWAT team deployed tear gas into the room and Smith surrender.  The standoff lasted approximately ten minutes.

Smith was not injured during the incident.  He was taken into custody and transported to the Houston County Jail.  Smith will face additional charges resulting from the shooting in Perry.

The GBI will continue its independent  investigation.  Once completed, it will be turned over to the Houston Judicial Circuit District Attorney's Office for review.

J.T. Ricketson - Special Agent in Charge | Perry | 478-987-4545