COBB COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

PRESS RELEASE

Sheriff’s Deputies involved in Shooting

            On Tuesday, July 21^st at approximately 6:00 pm, Investigators with the Cobb County Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit were in the process of serving a warrant at the Galleria Centre located on Cobb Parkway when the suspect attempted to elude custody.   In an effort to flee, the suspect identified as 22 year old Andrew Jerome Hector, of Smyrna, accelerated his vehicle, rammed a heavy concrete barrier and struck a deputy.  Fearing for his life, the Deputy fired four rounds striking the suspect in the arm.  Hector fled the scene and was later arrested by Sandy Springs Police.  He was taken to North Fulton Hospital and early this morning was transported to Grady Hospital for surgery.  

         According to Sheriff Neil Warren, Hector had an outstanding felony warrant for fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, obstruction as well as other traffic charges.  “This was not his first attempt to avoid arrest” said Warren.  “Our Deputies are aware of the risks involved in the service of fugitive warrants and are well trained to perform their duties and responsibilities.”

            Deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on Administrative Leave pending an Internal Affairs investigation. “Our initial indications are that Sheriff’s Office policies and procedures were followed” said Warren. 

     The criminal investigation will be conducted in cooperation with the GBI, which is standard procedure in any officer- involved shooting. 

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RELEASE DATE July 22 For further information contact  Nancy Bodiford at 770-499-4723