The GBI was requested by the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) to conduct an officer involved shooting investigation in Bartow County.
Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 11:00 am, GSP troopers initiated a traffic stop on I-75, Exit 293 Southbound. Noting suspicious activity of the female driver and male passenger, the occupants were placed in separate vehicles. One of the troopers discovered drugs during a search of the vehicle and approached the GSP vehicle with the male passenger, who has been identified as Kenneth Martin Anderson, 27. As the trooper was attempting a search of Anderson’s person while handcuffed behind his back, Anderson produced a handgun, firing three times, striking the trooper. Two troopers returned fire, striking Anderson multiple times. EMS personnel arrived at the scene and began lifesaving measures on Anderson, however, he later died at the Cartersville Hospital. The trooper was shot in his protective ballistic vest and upon evaluation at the hospital, it was determined he suffered from blunt force impact trauma.
The trooper has been released from the hospital. The female driver of the vehicle is being held at the Bartow County Jail where charges are expected to be filed by the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office.
The GBI will continue its independent investigation. Once complete, it will be turned over to the Cherokee Judicial Circuit District Attorney for review.
