Paulding County Detectives Investigate Fatal Shooting on Ridge Road; Suspect in Custody

PAULDING COUNTY, GA — A fatal shooting on Monday afternoon has left one man dead and another in custody as Paulding County detectives continue to investigate a tragic road rage incident that unfolded near the intersection of Ridge Road and Cohran Store Road.

On June 9, 2025, at approximately 2:25 p.m., the Paulding County E-911 center received a distressing call reporting a possible shooting. The caller, who identified himself as the victim, stated that he had been shot following an altercation with another driver — a Black male operating a black SUV. The altercation, according to preliminary findings, began as a road rage encounter and escalated into gunfire.

Victim Sought Help Before Succumbing to Injuries

After being shot, the victim—later identified as Shawn Christopher Brannon, a 41-year-old white male from Piedmont, Alabama—managed to drive himself to Paulding County Fire Station 5, located at 4215 Ridge Road in Douglasville. First responders at the station quickly rendered aid and arranged for emergency transport to Wellstar Paulding Hospital. Despite their efforts, Brannon succumbed to his injuries a short time after arrival.

The news of Brannon’s death quickly reverberated through both the local and neighboring communities, as investigators began piecing together the chain of events that led to the fatal encounter.

Swift Investigation Leads to Arrest

Detectives from the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office launched a rapid and thorough investigation. Utilizing a combination of investigative techniques — which have not been disclosed due to the active nature of the case — they were able to quickly locate the suspect’s vehicle, a black SUV, as well as identify and apprehend the suspected shooter.

The suspect was identified as Collins Pruitt, a 46-year-old Black male from Cobb County. Law enforcement officers located Pruitt at his residence, where he was taken into custody without incident.

Voluntary Manslaughter Charge Filed

After interviewing Pruitt and reviewing the evidence, detectives determined that the shooting arose out of a mutual confrontation that spiraled into deadly violence. Upon careful legal review, it was concluded that the facts did not meet the legal standard required to pursue a murder charge.

Instead, Collins Pruitt has been charged with one count of Voluntary Manslaughter, a felony under Georgia law. He is currently being held without bond at the Paulding County Jail as the case moves forward.

Road Rage Turned Deadly

Investigators have confirmed that the tragic event originated from a road rage incident, one of many that have plagued U.S. roads in recent years. While the precise details of the altercation remain under investigation, the shooting highlights the increasingly volatile nature of driver interactions and the dangerous consequences of unresolved confrontations on the road.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Appeal

The Paulding County Sheriff’s Office has emphasized that the investigation is still active and ongoing. Detectives are now working to gather all possible evidence, including dash cam footage, surveillance video from nearby businesses or residences, and statements from potential witnesses who may have seen the incident or the events leading up to it.

Law enforcement is asking anyone with relevant information to come forward. Witnesses are urged to contact the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at (770) 443-3047, or to submit information anonymously through the Paulding Sheriff mobile app.

Sheriff’s Statement

In a brief public statement, Sheriff Gary Gulledge extended condolences to the Brannon family and assured the public that the Sheriff’s Office is committed to a full and transparent investigation.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr. Brannon during this incredibly difficult time,” the Sheriff stated. “Violence on our roads is never acceptable, and we will pursue justice with integrity and diligence. We also urge everyone in our community to remain calm and patient as our detectives continue their work.”

Community Shock and Reflection

The incident has left many Paulding County residents stunned, especially given the broad daylight timing and the busy location near Ridge Road and Cohran Store Road — a commonly traveled route. Social media posts from local residents express grief for the victim’s family and concern about rising aggression on local roads.

Many community members have called for increased traffic enforcement, public awareness campaigns on road rage, and further efforts to de-escalate confrontations before they become violent.

This tragedy marks yet another painful reminder of the stakes involved in road rage incidents. As the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation, the community waits for answers and hopes that justice will be served — while also mourning the loss of a life cut short by senseless violence.