GBI Investigates Officer Involved Shooting in Mitchell County

Mitchell County, GA (December 21, 2020) - On Friday, December 18, 2020, at approximately 3:58 p.m., the GBI was requested by the Camilla Police Department to conduct an officer involved shooting that took place off of Bowen Street in Pelham, Georgia.

Preliminary information indicates that a Camilla PD officer conducted a traffic stop on a Honda Civic for a speeding violation in Camilla, Georgia. The driver, identified as Jarrett Wheeler, 22, of Pelham, told the officer he did not have a driver’s license on his person. The officer returned to their car to get paper to write down the license number and Wheeler’s date of birth to verify his license was valid. As the officer was returning to contact Wheeler, Wheeler sped away from the scene of the traffic stop. A vehicle pursuit ensued that reached speeds over 100 mph and concluded in Cato Alley off Bowen Street in Pelham, Georgia.

Once stopped, Wheeler exited his car and fled on foot. The Camilla PD officer gave chase on foot around a city block where they wound up behind a church. The officer observed Wheeler turn in his direction and produce something in his hand which was described as a gun. The officer then discharged his issued pistol multiple times at Wheeler. Wheeler was not struck by gunfire. The officer sustained minor injuries while taking cover behind the church. During a search in the area where Wheeler was arrested, officers found suspected marijuana, scales, and a loaded semi-automatic pistol. The pistol was located by Georgia Department of Natural Resources K-9 “Cuff” who is trained in article detection. Wheeler was arrested at the scene and transported to the Mitchell County Jail where he faces multiple traffic and criminal charges which are being handled by Camilla Police.

The GBI will conduct an independent investigation. Once complete, it will be turned over to DA Joe Mulholland for his review.

This case is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the GBI at 229-225-4090. Tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.