(DailyAnswer.org) – A tragic and confusing incident unfolded in Georgia when a homeowner shot and killed an off-duty Atlanta police officer who reportedly broke into a neighbor’s home early Friday morning. Authorities are calling the shooting a case of self-defense.
The officer has been identified as Investigator Aubree Horton, according to reports from WAGA-TV. Just a week before the incident, Horton had been honored with the Investigator of the Year award at the Atlanta Police Foundation’s 20th Annual “Crime is Toast” Awards. His service was well respected and his record was distinguished, making the situation even more shocking to those who knew him and the community at large.
The shooting occurred around 5 a.m. in the St. Andrews Country Club neighborhood, near East Carroll Road. According to Douglas County Sheriff Tim Pounds, deputies responded to a burglary call at the home where the shooting took place. “We understand that someone was trying to break into the home,” Pounds said. “The homeowner acted in self-defense, using a firearm to protect themselves and their property.” The person who was shot, Horton, did not survive the encounter.
Neighbors were stunned by the news, describing the area as usually quiet and peaceful. “I’ve lived here for five years, and I can promise you, this isn’t something you expect to see here,” said Milton Johnston, a resident in the area. Like many others, Johnston expressed his shock and confusion over how a respected officer like Horton could be involved in such a tragic incident.
Authorities believe that Horton lived about half a mile from the home where the shooting occurred. Officials have suggested that Horton may have been going through a mental health crisis or was possibly under the influence of drugs at the time. “We think the person who tried to break in lived in the neighborhood,” Sheriff Pounds explained, adding that the investigation is still ongoing and that there are many details they are still trying to uncover.
The Atlanta Police Department, where Horton had served since November 2015, expressed their sorrow in a public statement. They noted that Horton had been off duty at the time of the incident and confirmed that they are working closely with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to learn more about what exactly took place. As the investigation continues, both the department and the community are left searching for answers.
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