GBI Investigates Officer Involved Shooting in Valdosta, GA

Valdosta, Lowndes County, GA (September 30, 2026) - At the request of the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), GBI agents are investigating an officer involved shooting in Valdosta, GA. Denesha Latoria Miller, age 39, of Valdosta, GA, was shot and killed during the incident. No officers were injured.

Preliminary information indicates that at about 9:41 p.m., on September 29, 2026, two LCSO deputies were working in the area of the 700 block of East Brookwood Drive in Valdosta, GA. The deputies were driving in an unmarked LCSO SUV wearing clothing and equipment that identified them as law enforcement officers. A woman, later identified as Miller, signaled to the deputies to get their attention. The deputies then stopped their SUV as Miller approached them. Miller pulled a handgun out within view of the deputies, and law enforcement shot Miller. Deputies then rendered medical aid to Miller until EMS arrived.

Miller was pronounced deceased at the scene.

A handgun was recovered at the scene.

Miller’s body will be taken to the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office where an autopsy will be conducted.

This investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the GBI Regional Investigative Office in Thomasville at (229)225-4090. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling the GBI Tipline at 800-597-TIPS(8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile application.

Once the investigation is complete, a copy of the case file will be provided to the Southern Judicial CIrcuit District Attorney’s Office for review.