VALDOSTA — The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been formally requested to initiate an investigation concerning the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department. This significant request follows an officer-involved shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, which tragically resulted in the death of a 39-year-old woman. The victim’s family has come forward to publicly identify her as Denesha Miller, further emphasizing that she was a mother to five children at the time of the incident. The shooting, which allegedly involved an officer from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department, reportedly took place late in the evening hours, specifically around 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The GBI's involvement indicates an official state-level inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this alleged fatal shooting.
The GBI’s active inquiry is currently focused on the specific events and the actions of the Lowndes County Sheriff's Department officer involved in the Tuesday evening incident. This comprehensive investigation by the state agency is underway. As of the current time, the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department has officially declined to issue any official statements regarding the specifics of the situation or the ongoing inquiry. The department has chosen to withhold information, citing the active nature of the investigation being conducted by the GBI.
Separately, the Valdosta Police Department has confirmed its participation in the incident was strictly supportive in nature. Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manahan issued a clear statement outlining the department's precise role. Chief Manahan explained that personnel from the Valdosta Police Department responded to the scene and provided support only. Further clarifying the agency's position and responsibilities, Chief Manahan explicitly stated, "As we were not the primary agency... we will not make any statements." This declaration firmly establishes that the Valdosta Police Department's involvement was auxiliary, operating solely in a supportive capacity rather than leading the primary investigation into the officer-involved shooting that claimed Denesha Miller’s life.
Given that this remains a very active and ongoing investigation led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, authorities have not released any additional substantive information to the public beyond the initial details. The GBI is expected to thoroughly conduct its investigation and, following its due process, more information will be provided to the community as it is officially released. The public is advised that updates regarding the GBI’s inquiry into the fatal incident involving a Lowndes County officer and Denesha Miller will be made available as the investigation progresses.
