GBI Investigating Officer-Involve d Shooting in Lyons

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) Region 12 Eastman Office is conducting an independent study of an officer-involved shooting that occurred Tuesday morning in Lyons. The investigation was requested by the Toombs County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO).

At 1:37 a.m. on June 28, the TCSO was attempting to apprehend Rabul Valdez Jr., on outstanding warrants when the shooting occurred. Valdez, who has a history of domestic violence, theft, drug use, and fleeing from law enforcement, was located at his property on 121 Rodney Stanley Road in Lyons. When confronted by law enforcement, Valdez produced a firearm and was shot once by a deputy. Valdez then barricaded continued from page

himself within the residence, which caused a 4.5hour standoff with the law enforcement officials. Valdez eventually surrendered to authorities. Upon being taken into custody, Valdez received medical treatment by EMS for a superficial gunshot wound and was transported to the hospital for further care, where he remains in stable condition.

Findings by the GBI will be turned over to the Middle Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review at the conclusion of the investigation.