Family, friends, and members of the Macon community are mourning the loss of Joshua Epps, 35, following a deputy-involved shooting Saturday night on Bloomfield Road.
According to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the 5800 block of Bloomfield Road around 8:43 p.m. after receiving a 911 call reporting that an individual had been injured during a disturbance inside the residence.
When deputies arrived, authorities say they found a 51-year-old man who had reportedly been injured with scissors during the altercation. Investigators stated that deputies then encountered Joshua Epps, who was allegedly still holding the scissors at the scene.
Officials report that deputies repeatedly instructed Epps to drop the weapon, but the situation escalated when he allegedly advanced toward a deputy. During the encounter, a deputy discharged their firearm, striking Epps.
Emergency responders transported Epps to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The injured 51-year-old man was treated at the scene for injuries described as non-life-threatening. No deputies were injured during the incident.
The tragic event has left family members, friends, and loved ones grieving the sudden loss of Joshua Epps. Those who knew him remember him as a son, relative, and friend whose life carried meaning far beyond the circumstances surrounding his death.
Neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots late Saturday evening before seeing a large law enforcement presence and emergency vehicles throughout the area as authorities secured the scene.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has launched an independent investigation into the shooting, while the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs Division is conducting a separate review. Officials confirmed that the deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigations.
Authorities believe the incident stemmed from a domestic-related disturbance, though investigators continue working to determine the full sequence of events leading up to the fatal encounter.
As the investigation remains ongoing, family and friends continue to reflect on Joshua Epps’ life and the memories they shared with him while seeking comfort during this difficult time.
May Joshua Epps be remembered with love and rest in peace.