The veteran Carroll County Deputy who was shot while in the line of duty Tuesday morning remains in critical condition in an Atlanta hospital. His wife on Wednesday sent out a message to supporters and well-wishers; and the GBI on Wednesday released the chain of events they believe resulted in the deputy’s serious injury – and the death of a Carrollton man who was being investigated.
The GBI says preliminary information indicates: “…at around 8:30 a.m. On August 20th… GBI agents and Carroll County Deputies were at a home in the 300 block of Don Rich Drive in Carrollton – executing a search warrant associated with an ongoing GBI investigation.
Carroll County Deputies knocked on the door of the home, which was opened by 40-year old Christopher Bly. Bly immediately retreated into the home, followed by the deputies. Bly produced a handgun and fired — striking himself and deputy Taylor Bristow. Bly was pronounced dead at the scene.
Bristow was taken by life flight to an Atlanta hospital.
Evidence obtained during the investigation indicates that Bly died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The shooting incident is being investigated by the GBI’s Atlanta Regional Office. The original search warrant was executed by agents with the GBI’s child exploitation and computer crimes unit. During the search, agents located and seized multiple electronic devices within the home which contained child sexual abuse material.
The GBI says once the investigation is complete, the case file will be given to the Carroll County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Meanwhile – the wife of Taylor Bristow – Lyssa Bristow – shared a message to those who have been supportive during this tying time.
“… we see everything and we feel everything. The love, the prayers, the thoughts, the well wishes.
We are fighting the good fight and appreciate every little and big thing. It’s does not go without notice.
My heart is in a thousand pieces right now and I wish I had good news and a true update but we are not out of the woods yet and we need all the love, prayers and well wishes to continue! God is good and he is in control!”
Those able to offer financial support for Bristow’s family during this difficult period – should donate through the West Georgia First Responders non-profit.
