The search continues for the suspect who shot a Towns County deputy during a traffic stop last week. Deputy Austin Bradburn remains hospitalized, according to organizers of a GoFundMe account set up to help the wounded deputy.
According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Bradburn stopped a silver 2010 or similar model Honda without a tag on Plott Town Road in Young Harris early Friday morning. Following the stop, authorities say the suspect exited the vehicle and approached Bradburn.
After an unsuccessful attempt to tase the suspect, police say there was a struggle between Bradburn and the suspect, who shot Bradburn with Bradburn’s own weapon. The suspect then fled the scene in his vehicle, leaving the deputy’s firearm behind.
Bradburn was taken to a metro hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
“Bradburn has a recovery period that is unknown at this time, but he is alive,” Bradburn’s GoFundMe states. “He will be out of work, and workman’s comp can only cover so much. This GoFundMe is being started to assist him with any expensive [sic] that may be needed outside of workman’s comp.”
Search continues
The GBI is now looking for the suspect, who is described as a white man about 6 feet tall and weighing between 170 and 180 pounds. He was driving a 2010 or similar silver Honda four-door sedan. According to the GBI, the suspect wore a black beanie, gray hoodie, and black athletic pants.
The GBI on Monday said the suspect has not been identified and remains at large.
The investigation is active and ongoing. The GBI and the Towns County Sheriff’s Office are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect. Anyone with information is asked to call Towns County 911 or the GBI Tipline at 800-597-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be submitted online.
