A suspected shoplifter pulled a gun and pointed it at a Richmond County investigator during an attempted arrest outside a Walmart on Wrightsboro Road Saturday afternoon, prompting a brief foot chase that ended with the suspect’s capture nearby.
According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 2:58 p.m. Saturday when Investigator Michael Cole attempted to detain Edward Morris, 43, at the Walmart located at 3338 Wrightsboro Road. Authorities say Morris drew a handgun from his waistband and pointed it at Cole before fleeing on foot. Cole pursued the suspect while maintaining safety for bystanders, and Morris was taken into custody minutes later by Deputy Darella Johnson in a parking lot behind AutoZone at 1503 North Leg Road.
Investigators say a K9 unit, led by Deputy Wade Banks, was deployed to search the suspect’s path for the discarded firearm, which may have been dropped in an area with dense brush and wooded terrain. Surveillance video from Walmart reportedly confirmed that Morris pointed the weapon at the investigator during the encounter.
Morris faces several charges, including aggravated assault on a peace officer, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and misdemeanor shoplifting. He also had an outstanding warrant for DUI in Rockdale County, Georgia.
A second individual, Angelo Harris, 39, who was with Morris inside the store, was also arrested and charged with misdemeanor shoplifting. Authorities say Harris did not flee and was taken into custody at the scene.
Sheriff Gino Brantley issued the following statement: “This is a stark reminder that what may seem like a routine shoplifting incident can escalate into a potentially deadly encounter. The moment Edward Morris made the decision to draw and point a firearm at one of our investigators, he not only endangered his own life but the lives of every innocent person nearby. I commend Inv. Cole for his professionalism and restraint under pressure, as well as all deputies involved for bringing this dangerous suspect into custody without further incident. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting our community while upholding the highest standards of discipline and integrity in the face of danger.”
