ATLANTA, Georgia (Atlanta News First) – A Carroll County deputy who was shot in the head during a search operation Tuesday has died, according to the sheriff’s office.

Law enforcement shared the news about Investigator Taylor Bristow in a Facebook post early Saturday morning.

“Tonight we mourn the passing of Investigator Bristow, who has left this earth and gained his wings in heaven. He served our community with unwavering passion and dedicated his life to protecting the citizens of Carroll County,” the statement said. “We are deeply saddened and at a loss for words. Please keep his family in mind and pray for them and respect their privacy as they grieve this difficult loss.”

In a statement posted on X, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp sent his condolences to Bristow’s family and law enforcement.

“Our hearts are heavy this morning as we join the Bristow family, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and all Georgians in mourning the loss of Investigator Taylor Bristow,” he wrote. “May God grant them strength and comfort during this painful time and may He grant safety to all of our law enforcement officers.”

On Tuesday morning, officers went to a home on Don Rich Drive in Carrollton to execute a search warrant for child pornography. The suspect, 40-year-old Christopher Bly, went back into the home after opening the door, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).

“Bly pulled out a pistol and fired, hitting himself and (Bristow),” the GBI said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Suspect identified in shooting that injured Carroll County police officer

Bristow was flown by helicopter to Grady Memorial Hospital and underwent surgery. He was listed in critical condition afterward. According to the GBI, several child sexual abuse devices were later recovered from his home.

Bristow was an investigator who had been with the department for six years. West Georgia First Responders operates the only legitimate website where people can donate to Bristow’s family, the sheriff’s office said.

Last Saturday, 30-year-old Paulding County Deputy Brandon Cunningham was also killed while responding to a private life call. The sheriff’s office said he was shot less than 10 seconds after arriving at the scene.

The suspect, James Atkins, also shot himself after a standoff lasting hours.

This is a developing story. Check back with Atlanta News First as we learn more.

MORE COVERAGE

More than $7,000 raised for Carroll County deputy shot in the line of duty

Carroll County businesses show support for sheriff’s office after deputy shooting

Carroll County officer in critical condition after shooting during search, suspect dead, authorities say

All rights reserved.