Brandon Sikes dies in fatal Columbia County shooting

Brandon Sikes dies in fatal Columbia County shooting

Fatal Columbia County shooting death of Brandon Sikes – Obituary

Brandon Sikes, a deputy with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, was shot and killed Saturday evening during a traffic stop on Interstate 20, just outside Augusta, Georgia. According to authorities, the incident happened around 6:30 p.m. when deputies attempted to pull over a motor home driven by James Blake Montgomery.

Initially cooperating, Montgomery turned violent when deputies informed him of an outstanding temporary protective order. As deputies walked back toward their patrol car, Montgomery allegedly opened fire with a converted 9mm AR pistol. Deputy Gavin White was also wounded, taking a gunshot to the face, and remains in critical condition as doctors work to remove bullet fragments and repair damage to his sinus and oral cavity.

Sikes had been with the sheriff’s office since 2018 and is survived by his wife, Amber, who also works for the department. Sheriff Clay Whittle acknowledged the heavy loss for the department but assured the community they would persevere.

Following the exchange of gunfire, Montgomery was found dead inside his motor home. The exact cause of his death remains under investigation pending autopsy results. Authorities discovered pipe bombs, a remote-detonated device, multiple firearms, magazines, ammunition, and jars containing unknown liquids inside the vehicle. Officials also revealed that Montgomery was allegedly involved in the illegal sale of steroids.

The shooting resulted in a complete shutdown of I-20 for roughly nine hours as investigators secured the scene. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed condolences on behalf of his family, honoring the bravery and sacrifice shown by Sikes and White.

This tragic incident marks the third time a Georgia law enforcement officer has died in the line of duty this year. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the shooting are ongoing.