Porterdale, GA (July 16, 2019) – On Tuesday, July 16, 2019, the Porterdale Police Department and Newton County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO) requested the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to conduct an officer involved shooting investigation.

Preliminary information revealed that on Monday, July 15, 2019, at approximately 9:24 p.m., the Porterdale Police Department responded to a 911 call of a domestic disturbance with gunshots at 35 Magan Court. Upon arrival at the residence, the officer observed blood in the driveway. Deputies with the NCSO also responded to the scene, as well as the NCSO SWAT Team. While searching the house, deputies located a male subject, identified as Daryl Johannesson, 56, in an upstairs closet. During the encounter, one SWAT team member fired his weapon. Johannesson was pronounced dead at the scene. A handgun was recovered from the closet. 

A deceased female, identified as Erin Rene Smith, 40, was found in the garage of the residence. A preliminary examination indicates she died of gunshot wounds.

Autopsies will be performed at the GBI Crime Lab in Decatur.

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

Contact Information:

Nelly Miles - Public Affairs Director