Forsyth County, GA – A Gwinnett County sheriff’s deputy was tragically shot and killed by her boyfriend, who also shot her teenage son, according to authorities. The incident occurred on Saturday in Forsyth County, Georgia.
Fatal Shooting of Deputy Tamara Tuitt-Bartlett
On Saturday evening, Deputy Tamara Tuitt-Bartlett, who was off-duty, was allegedly gunned down by her boyfriend, 43-year-old Eric Sumner, in what authorities are describing as a domestic dispute. The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call from one of Bartlett’s neighbors, who reported that Bartlett’s son was at the front door, bleeding from gunshot wounds.
The teenager reportedly told the neighbor that his mother had been involved in a heated argument with Sumner, during which the suspect opened fire. While the neighbor applied pressure to the boy’s wounds, the teenager also said his mother was shot during the altercation.
Law Enforcement Response and Arrest
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies found Tamara Tuitt-Bartlett in her bedroom, where she was declared dead. Sumner had fled the scene in his vehicle, but he was eventually apprehended in Monroe County. He was extradited to Forsyth County, where he remains in custody without bond.
Meanwhile, the teenage son was rushed to a local hospital and is reported to be in stable condition following the shooting.
Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office Remembers Fallen Deputy
After the tragic loss of Deputy Tuitt-Bartlett, the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office paid tribute to their fallen colleague on social media. The office praised her nearly 20 years of service, highlighting her unwavering dedication and compassion to the community. They described her as a deputy who “embodied the core values” of the department and made a significant impact on everyone who worked with her.
Past Domestic Dispute and Protective Order
Court records reveal that Tamara Tuitt-Bartlett had previously sought a protective order against Eric Sumner in April. However, the case was dismissed, and there were no further reports of action taken against Sumner prior to the fatal incident.
Charges Filed Against Eric Sumner
Eric Sumner has been charged with murder of a family member with a gun and two counts of aggravated assault with a gun. He is set to appear in court on Tuesday, where he will face these serious charges.
Community Impact and Remembrance
This incident has left the community in shock, especially considering the victim’s long tenure and reputation as a dedicated law enforcement officer. The loss of Deputy Tamara Tuitt-Bartlett has prompted an outpouring of support from her colleagues, friends, and the community she served for nearly two decades.
