On April 26, 2025, a day that was meant to be just another routine service, turned into a devastating tragedy that shook Columbia County, Georgia, to its core. Deputy Brandon Sekes, a dedicated law enforcement officer, tragically lost his life during what should have been a simple task—serving a protective order. It was a duty he had performed countless times before, but that evening, something went terribly wrong. The ordinary was shattered by gunfire, and Deputy Sekes became yet another hero who paid the ultimate price for his commitment to serving and protecting the community.
At approximately 6:30 p.m. on that fateful day, Deputy Sekes approached a residence to serve a protective order to James Blake Montgomery. The situation quickly escalated when Montgomery, who had been served with the order, opened fire on the deputy. The first shot rang out unexpectedly, followed by more gunfire, striking Deputy Sekes as he was carrying out his sworn duty. It happened quickly—too quickly for anyone to anticipate the chaos that would follow.
The shots were fired near Exit 194, a location familiar to many in Columbia County. For most, it was simply a stretch of road they passed through regularly without giving it much thought. However, that evening, it became the site of a tragedy that would forever alter the course of the community’s history. The gunfire echoed through the evening, and fellow deputies, comrades in uniform, rushed to Deputy Sekes’ side without hesitation. They tried desperately to save him right there on the highway, working tirelessly as emergency responders flooded the scene. Strangers pulled over, offering assistance in any way they could. The support was overwhelming, but despite their best efforts, it was too late. Deputy Sekes succumbed to his injuries, and Columbia County was left reeling from the loss of a beloved member of their law enforcement community.
The death of Deputy Sekes was sudden, violent, and incredibly unfair. A man who had dedicated his life to serving the community, standing between danger and safety, was taken in an instant. His death leaves behind not only his family but also a deep void in the hearts of his fellow deputies and the entire community. He was more than just a law enforcement officer—he was a friend, a mentor, a protector, and a trusted member of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. His loss has left the Sheriff’s Office mourning the absence of a colleague who had become family.
Deputy Sekes was the kind of person who embodied the true spirit of service. He did not wear the uniform just as a job; he wore it as a symbol of his commitment to keeping the community safe, no matter the cost. His dedication was evident in every interaction he had with the people he served—whether he was attending a community event, helping a citizen in need, or simply driving through the streets of Columbia County, offering a reassuring presence to those who needed it. He made it his mission to protect those around him, always willing to put himself at risk for the greater good. His uniform was not just an outfit he donned; it was a daily choice he made to stand in the gap between danger and safety.
But it wasn’t just Deputy Sekes’ bravery that set him apart; it was his humanity. He was known for his kindness, his approachability, and his ability to connect with people on a personal level. In a world where law enforcement officers are often seen as authority figures, Deputy Sekes stood out for his ability to break down barriers and truly engage with the community. He was the kind of person who made others feel safe—not just because of his badge, but because of his compassion and willingness to listen.
As news of the shooting spread, the entire community of Columbia County was shaken. People who knew Deputy Sekes—family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues—found themselves grappling with an immense sense of loss. It wasn’t just the loss of a law enforcement officer, it was the loss of a man who had been an integral part of the community. The pain of his passing was felt deeply by those who had worked alongside him, and by those whose lives he had touched with his kindness and selflessness.
For his family, the loss is incomprehensible. Deputy Sekes leaves behind a wife, children, and loved ones who are now faced with the unimaginable task of navigating life without him. The family, although surrounded by a community that supports them, must endure the pain of losing a husband, father, and son—someone who meant everything to them. In the days following his death, an outpouring of support has flooded in from both near and far, as people express their condolences and share memories of the man they loved.
In addition to his family, his fellow deputies are left to carry on without him. The bond between law enforcement officers is one of the strongest, built on shared experiences, mutual respect, and the understanding that each officer has the other’s back. Deputy Sekes was no different—he was a dependable and trusted colleague who had earned the respect and admiration of those who worked alongside him. His death has left a hole in the hearts of his fellow deputies, who now must honor his memory by continuing to serve with the same dedication and courage that he exhibited every day.
Sheriff Clay Whittle, who addressed the media in the aftermath of the tragic incident, expressed the profound sorrow felt by the Sheriff’s Office. “Our deputies put their lives on the line every single day to protect and serve,” he said. “Tonight’s tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks they face. We ask the community to pray for a full recovery for our injured deputy and for strength for his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Though Deputy Sekes’ life was cut short, his legacy will live on in the community he served so selflessly. His memory will be carried by his family, his fellow officers, and the citizens of Columbia County who will continue to benefit from the safety and protection he worked so hard to provide. The love and dedication he had for his community will not be forgotten.
In the days following the tragedy, the community has come together in solidarity, offering support to Deputy Sekes’ family and honoring his sacrifice. Memorial services and fundraisers have been organized, with the goal of ensuring that his family receives the support they need during this incredibly difficult time. The support from the community speaks to the profound impact that Deputy Sekes had on the lives of those around him.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the Columbia County community remains hopeful that justice will prevail. The Sheriff’s Office, with the support of local law enforcement and the community, will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for this attack are held accountable. While Deputy Sekes’ death leaves an irreplaceable void, the community’s commitment to justice and the values he held dear will continue to guide them forward.
Deputy Brandon Sekes’ life was a testament to the power of service, sacrifice, and selflessness. He embodied the ideals of courage and dedication, and his untimely passing has left a deep mark on the hearts of all who knew him. As the community comes together to heal from this tragic loss, they will continue to honor his memory by living in a way that reflects the love, strength, and kindness he brought into the world every day. Rest in peace, Deputy Sekes. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten, and your legacy will continue to inspire the community you served so faithfully.
