Woman dies in police gunfire

Columbia County sheriff's deputies fatally shot a 44-year-old Martinez woman Monday afternoon after she pointed a revolver at officers, a sheriff's official said.

Kimberly Weathers, of the 200 block of New Petersburg Drive, was pronounced dead at 7:28 p.m., said Columbia County Deputy Coroner Vernon Collins. She died of injuries caused by what appeared to be two gunshots to the chest, he said.

At 5:11 p.m., authorities received a call from a resident who was "threatening suicide," Columbia County sheriff's Capt. Steve Morris said.

When deputies arrived at the apartment complex at the western portion of River Watch Parkway near Baston Road, they found the woman holed up and alone inside her apartment, Capt. Morris said. She then started firing shots at sheriff's deputies through a window, he said.

"Officers attempted to negotiate with her as they surrounded and contained the scene," Capt. Morris said.

After about two hours of negotiating, Capt. Morris said, the woman walked out holding what appeared to be a .38- or .32-caliber handgun.

"At first, she points the gun at herself, then turns and points the weapon at a nearby officer. The suspect is shot, and the threat is stopped," Capt. Morris said.

Neighbors at the New Petersburg Apartments said police told them to stay inside their homes.

Barbara Butler said, "I heard gunshots that sounded like firecrackers. I saw the ambulance taking her out and saw lots of blood."

Sue Williams, who also lives at the complex, said she heard police on a bullhorn say, "Come outside with your hands up." Ms. Williams said Ms. Weathers had three older children.

About 20 officers, including a Special Response Team, were at the scene.

Sheriff Clay Whittle investigated the scene after the shooting, along with members of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Capt. Morris said.

Capt. Morris said "several officers" fired but was unable to name them.

He said at least one person has been placed on administrative leave with pay, pending the investigation - a standard policy in such cases.

Capt. Morris said deputies had been called to her apartment on four previous occasions - once concerning a suicide threat.

Mr. Collins said an autopsy would be performed today.

Staff Writer Quandra Collins contributed to this article.

Reach Timothy Cox at (706) 823-3217 or tim.cox@augustachronicle.com.