Crime
Columbia County deputy Brandon Sikes killed, another injured While Serving Protective Order
Both deputies were engaged in the service of the protective order to the suspect, later identified as James Blake Montgomery.
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, two Columbia County Sheriff’s Deputies were shot while attempting to serve a Temporary Protective Order.
The incident occurred at approximately 6:24 p.m. near Exit 194 on the westbound side of Interstate 20.
According to Columbia County investigators, Deputy Brandon Sikes was fatally shot during the encounter, while Deputy Gavin White sustained a gunshot wound to the face.
Both deputies were engaged in the service of the protective order to the suspect, later identified as James Blake Montgomery.
Following the shooting, Montgomery attempted to flee the scene in a recreational vehicle (RV).
His escape was halted when the RV was ensnared by a cable barrier on I-20. Law enforcement personnel from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, and Georgia State Patrol responded swiftly to the scene.
Columbia County Sheriff Clay Whittle confirmed on Sunday morning that Montgomery was found deceased inside the RV.
A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered a cache of dangerous items, including pipe bombs, bomb-making materials, multiple firearms, a large quantity of ammunition, and several jars containing unidentified liquids.
Investigators also revealed that Montgomery was allegedly involved in the illegal sale of steroids.
Deputy White remains in critical condition but has been able to communicate with medical staff. Sheriff Whittle acknowledged that White faces a long and challenging recovery ahead.
Deputy Brandon Sikes is survived by his wife, Amber Sikes, who is also a member of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.
Due to the severity of the incident and ongoing investigations, Interstate 20 near Exit 194 was closed in both directions for over nine hours.
According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, the highway was reopened to traffic shortly before 4:30 a.m. on Sunday.
Crime
25-Year-Old Adrian Scott Arrested and Charged in Connection with July Bomb and Arson Investigation
St. Louis, MO — Authorities have arrested and charged 25-year-old Adrian Scott in connection with a July incident that sparked a Bomb and Arson investigation after a video surfaced on social media showing a man deliberately throwing fireworks at people and property.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, Scott was taken into custody two days ago following an extensive investigation by detectives assigned to the department’s Bomb and Arson Unit.
He now faces one count of Promoting Civil Disorder and one count of Armed Criminal Action, both felony charges.
Investigators say the viral video captured Scott recklessly igniting and throwing explosive fireworks in a public area, endangering bystanders and causing property damage.
The footage prompted widespread concern and led to the official investigation.
Following his arrest, Scott was booked into custody and is awaiting further court proceedings.
Authorities emphasized that such reckless and dangerous behavior will be met with serious legal consequences, noting that the charges reflect the severity of the offense and the potential harm caused to the public.