AUGUSTA () – On Saturday, May 31st at approximately 2:58 p.m., Investigator Michael Cole, who was working a special duty assignment at Walmart located at 3338 Wrightsboro Road, attempted to apprehend a suspected shoplifter.

Authorities say, during the encounter, the suspect, later identified as 43-year-old Edward Morris brandished a handgun from his waistband and pointed it at Investigator Cole before fleeing on foot.

Investigator Cole immediately pursued the suspect while maintaining the safety of surrounding shoppers and employees. The suspect was subsequently apprehended at approximately 3:03 PM in the parking lot behind AutoZone at 1503 North Leg Road.

A K9 track, led by Deputy Wade Banks, has been initiated to search the suspect’s flight path for the discarded firearm, which includes areas of high brush and woods.

Investigators reviewed Walmart surveillance footage that shows the suspect pointing the handgun at Investigator Cole during the incident.

Morris has been charged with the following offenses:

• Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer
• Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
• Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime
• Misdemeanor Shoplifting
• Outstanding warrant for DUI (Rockdale County, GA)

According to authorities, 39-year-old Angelo Harris was also arrested at the scene. Harris was present with Morris inside the store and is charged with misdemeanor shoplifting. Harris remained at the scene as Morris fled.

This investigation is ongoing.

Sheriff Gino Brantley issued the following statement: “This is a stark reminder that what may seem like a routine shoplifting incident can escalate into a potentially deadly encounter. The moment Edward Morris made the decision to draw and point a firearm at one of our investigators, he not only endangered his own life but the lives of every innocent person nearby. I commend Inv. Cole for his professionalism and restraint under pressure, as well as all deputies involved for bringing this dangerous suspect into custody without further incident. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting our community while upholding the highest standards of discipline and integrity in the face of danger.”