GBI investigates officer involved shooting in Habersham

HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. – The GBI is investigating an officer involved shooting in Clarkesville, Georgia.  The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office and the Clarkesville Police Department requested that the GBI conduct an independent investigation on September 7, 2024.  One man identified as Aaron Allen Patterson, age 41, of Clarkesville, Georgia, was shot and taken to a local hospital in critical condition.  No officers were injured.

Preliminary information indicates that on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at about 6:15 p.m., a Clarkesville Police Officer was dispatched to a request for a welfare check with a possible suicidal person at the Cameron Apartments. Upon arrival at the Cameron Apartments, the officer was unable to make contact with Patterson at his apartment.  A Demorest Police Officer responded as backup and saw Patterson walking with a handgun.  Patterson  ran from the officers.  Deputies with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist the officers on scene.  Ultimately, an officer found Patterson and saw that Patterson was armed with a rifle.  When the officer spoke with Patterson, he turned towards the officers with the rifle.  At that point, multiple officers fired at Patterson.  Patterson sustained several gunshot wounds.

Officers provided Patterson with medical treatment at the scene.  EMS arrived and continued treatment.  EMS took Patterson to a helicopter where he was taken to a local hospital & remains in critical condition.

The GBI will continue its independent investigation. Once the investigation is complete,, it will be given to the Mountain Judicial Circuit District Attorney for review.