GBI Investigates Officer Involved Shooting in Cobb County

Austell, GA (February 13, 2020) – On Wednesday, February 12, 2020, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation was requested by the Cobb County Police Department to investigate an officer involved shooting. 

Preliminary information indicates that on Wednesday night, a 911 caller reported shots fired at 970 Ellison Court, Austell, GA.  Two Cobb County PD patrol units responded to the call.  One officer approached the front door of the residence. As the officer approached the door, a second officer observed a male, later identified as James Edward Rucker, age 58, in the doorway. The second officer fired in the direction of Rucker in the doorway.  Rucker was shot multiple times and the officer by the door was also shot.  The officer and Rucker were transported to local hospitals. The officer received non-life-threatening injuries and was treated and released.  Rucker is currently receiving medical attention.    

A gun was located in the doorway of the residence.

The GBI will conduct an independent investigation and once complete will be turned over to the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office for review.