(Atlanta) – Governor Brian Kemp has issued a State of Emergency across Georgia following a deadly and destructive July Fourth weekend in the state’s capital.
At least five people were killed and dozens more were wounded in shootings in Atlanta, according to the governor’s office. Among the dead, an 8-year-old girl who was fatally shot while riding in a car Saturday night near the memorial site for Rayshard Brooks.
On Sunday, July 5, a crowd vandalized the Georgia Department of Public Safety Building and attempted to set the building on fire.
Kemp’s emergency declaration gives him the authority to activate as many as 1,000 Georgia National Guard troops to provide security in areas where it’s needed.
“Peaceful protests were hijacked by criminals with a dangerous, destructive agenda. Now, innocent Georgians are being targeted, shot, and left for dead,” said Kemp. “This lawlessness must be stopped and order restored in our capital city.”
The Georgia Guard will provide support at state buildings, including the Georgia State Capitol, Georgia Department of Public Safety Headquarters, and Governor’s Mansion. This aid will allow state law enforcement personnel to increase patrols on roadways and throughout communities, especially those in the City of Atlanta.
The State of Emergency will expire at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, July 13, unless the governor renews it.
