ALEXANDRIA, Tenn. — A 48-year-old man was shot and killed Saturday night during an encounter with deputies attempting to serve a warrant in DeKalb County, according to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has taken over the case as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the deadly incident.
Sheriff Patrick Ray said two deputies arrived at a residence on Goodner Lane to serve a court-ordered warrant on Gary Ray Ashford when the shooting occurred. According to the sheriff, the situation turned violent after deputies made contact with Ashford. “During the arrest, Ashford produced a weapon and came toward the deputies,” Ray stated. “The deputies shot Ashford. He was pronounced dead at the scene.”
Following the incident, deputies immediately secured the area and notified the District Attorney’s Office, which in turn requested that the TBI conduct an independent investigation. The agency’s crime scene and investigative units responded to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Investigators are reviewing the deputies’ actions, body camera footage, and physical evidence to determine what led to the use of deadly force.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the nature of the warrant or the weapon Ashford allegedly displayed. Sheriff Ray expressed condolences to everyone affected, emphasizing that such outcomes are tragic for both law enforcement and the community. “Any time there’s a loss of life, it’s devastating,” he said. “We will cooperate fully with the investigation.”
The TBI confirmed that no deputies were injured in the shooting. Once the investigation is complete, the agency will present its findings to the District Attorney General’s Office, which will decide whether any further action is necessary.
Saturday night’s shooting marks the latest officer-involved incident in the region this year, prompting renewed discussions about safety during warrant operations. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and cooperative when approached by law enforcement officers to prevent similar tragedies. The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional information has been released at this time.