Brandon Sikes, Gavin White, and James Blake Montgomery: A Tragic Officer-Involved Shooting in Columbia County, Georgia

On Saturday evening, April 26, 2025, a routine traffic stop on Interstate 20 near Exit 194 in Columbia County, Georgia, escalated into a deadly confrontation that resulted in the death of Deputy Brandon Sikes and critically injured Deputy Gavin White. The suspect, James Blake Montgomery, initiated the attack without warning, leading to a standoff that ended with Montgomery’s death.

The Incident

At approximately 6:30 p.m., Deputies Brandon Sikes, Gavin White, and a third deputy approached Montgomery’s motorhome to serve a Temporary Protective Order related to a domestic violence case involving Montgomery’s wife. Initially cooperative, Montgomery suddenly opened fire with a fully automatic 9mm AR pistol, fatally striking Deputy Sikes and injuring Deputy White in the face. The third deputy was unharmed.

Montgomery then retreated to his motorhome, leading to a standoff with law enforcement agencies. After several hours, Montgomery attempted to flee but was found dead at the scene. Investigators discovered pipe bombs, firearms, and ammunition in his vehicle, indicating the potential for even greater harm had the situation not been contained.

The Victims

Deputy Brandon Sikes
Deputy Sikes, 32, had been with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office since 2018, serving as a crime suppression officer. He is survived by his wife, Amber, who also works for the sheriff’s office. The community mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Deputy Gavin White
Deputy White, 28, was critically injured in the attack, suffering gunshot wounds to the face. He underwent surgery and is currently recovering. His condition remains serious, and he faces a long road to recovery. The sheriff’s office and the community are rallying behind him, offering support during this challenging time.

James Blake Montgomery
Montgomery, 41, was the suspect in the shooting. Authorities had previously responded to domestic violence-related calls involving Montgomery. His actions on April 26 resulted in the tragic deaths of Deputy Sikes and the severe injury of Deputy White. The investigation into his background and motives is ongoing.

Community and Official Reactions

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Deputy Sikes and pledged full support for Deputy White’s recovery. Sheriff Clay Whittle described Sikes as a “brave officer” and emphasized the difficulty of losing a colleague and friend.

Governor Brian Kemp and other state officials offered condolences to the families and colleagues of the deputies, highlighting the dangers law enforcement officers face daily. Governor Kemp stated, “Our hearts are with the families and colleagues of these brave officers.”

The incident has prompted discussions about officer safety and the need for continued support for law enforcement personnel. The community has come together to honor the fallen deputy and support the injured officer.

Ongoing Investigation

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is leading the investigation into the events of April 26. Authorities are examining Montgomery’s background, including his criminal history and any connections to extremist groups. The discovery of weapons and explosives in his vehicle has raised concerns about potential premeditation.

Law enforcement agencies are also reviewing their protocols for serving protective orders to ensure the safety of officers and the public. The incident has underscored the unpredictable nature of such operations and the need for heightened awareness and preparation.

Conclusion

The tragic events in Columbia County serve as a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily. The loss of Deputy Brandon Sikes and the injury of Deputy Gavin White have left a lasting impact on the community. As investigations continue, the focus remains on honoring the memory of Deputy Sikes, supporting Deputy White’s recovery, and ensuring justice for all involved.