The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has received official clearance from the Regional Force Investigation Team and District Attorney Jared T. Williams regarding the actions of deputies Victor Rodriguez and Cpl. Amanda Donald during the Oct. 2 shooting involving 20-year-old Dalyn Dewayne Elder.
According to Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard, the review determined that both deputies acted within their lawful duties to neutralize an immediate and deadly threat. Investigators concluded that Elder, an armed and dangerous fleeing felon, ambushed Deputy Rodriguez with the intent to cause serious harm or death.
District Attorney Williams’ decision was based on a comprehensive review of the Regional Force Investigation Team’s findings, as well as body-worn camera and surveillance footage from the scene.
“This case serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers during every call for service,” Chief Blanchard said in the statement. “Deputies often place themselves in harm’s way to protect the citizens of Augusta-Richmond County, making split-second decisions under extreme stress. Their courage, professionalism, and dedication to public safety are deeply appreciated.”
Sheriff Gino Brantley said he is grateful that both deputies survived the confrontation and that the investigation supports their actions.
“We are thankful that Deputies Rodriguez and Donald are alive and that justice has prevailed through the facts of this investigation,” Sheriff Brantley said. “We continue to stand by our deputies and all those who risk their lives each day to serve and protect our community.”
Deputy Rodriguez continues to recover from multiple gunshot wounds suffered during the shootout. “While his journey ahead will be lengthy, his determination remains strong,” Blanchard said, adding that Rodriguez has been moved by the outpouring of support from fellow deputies, community members, and partner agencies across Georgia.
The shooting occurred after deputies responded to an armed robbery call on Washington Road just after midnight Oct. 2. While investigating, Deputy Rodriguez encountered Elder near the I-20 overpass. Investigators say Elder opened fire on Rodriguez before fleeing toward a nearby shopping center, where Cpl. Amanda Donald fired back, striking him at least once.
Elder, who was wanted on 11 outstanding warrants — including aggravated assault and firearm possession by a convicted felon — was critically injured and faces charges of aggravated assault on law enforcement officers, among other crimes. But he remains in the intensive care unit at the hospital.
