SUMMERVILLE, GA — A fatal shooting in Summerville on Friday afternoon has left one man dead and another in custody as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly encounter. The incident occurred just after noon on June 6, 2025, shaking residents in the quiet Oak Street neighborhood.
According to Summerville Police Chief Brian Ozment, officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 100 block of Oak Street at approximately 12:36 p.m. When they arrived at the scene, they found Christopher Chapman, a local man, lying in the roadway with a critical gunshot wound. Emergency responders transported him to Chattooga ER, but sadly, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Police quickly launched an investigation, and within an hour of the shooting, a suspect had been identified. A coordinated law enforcement response involving the Summerville Police Department, the Georgia State Patrol, and the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office led to the suspect being taken into custody during a traffic stop on Taylor Ridge. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name or the charges he may face.
As of Friday evening, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) had joined local police in conducting interviews with witnesses and executing search warrants. Investigators are working to determine what led to the fatal confrontation and whether the suspect and the victim knew each other prior to the incident. No motive has been confirmed at this time.
Officials have urged community members to come forward with any information they may have regarding the case. Anyone who witnessed the shooting or who has details that could help investigators is encouraged to contact the Summerville Police Department or the GBI. Law enforcement believes that public cooperation could be crucial in helping piece together exactly what happened.
The shooting has left residents of Summerville shocked and saddened, as violent incidents are rare in the small community. With an active investigation underway, local leaders are calling for peace and patience as authorities work to uncover the full truth. Further details, including the identity of the suspect and any formal charges, are expected to be released once the initial investigation concludes.
