A drug investigation in Bartow County escalated into a deadly confrontation Tuesday afternoon after deputies shot and killed a driver who allegedly opened fire during a traffic stop.
According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, deputies and members of the Bartow Cartersville Drug Task Force initially attempted to stop a vehicle connected to an ongoing narcotics probe. Authorities say the driver, identified as Justin Eric Hardin, fled the scene, triggering a pursuit.
The chase ended beneath the overpass at the junction of Interstate 75 and Highway 20 after deputies used a PIT maneuver to disable the vehicle.
Investigators said Hardin’s passenger, Angela Green of Acworth, exited the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident. However, Hardin reportedly remained inside and ignored commands from deputies.
Officials stated that deputies deployed OC spray in an attempt to force him out and eventually broke the driver’s side door. During the confrontation, Hardin allegedly pointed a firearm at officers and fired. Deputies returned fire, striking Hardin. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities said a significant quantity of suspected methamphetamine was recovered from the vehicle. Green was transported to the Bartow County Detention Center in connection with the investigation.
An autopsy will be conducted by the GBI’s Medical Examiner’s Office. Once the investigation is completed, the case will be forwarded to the Bartow County District Attorney’s Office for review.
The incident marks the 20th officer-involved shooting in Georgia this year, with more than half resulting in fatalities.
