FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — An off-duty Gwinnett County deputy was killed and her teenage son wounded in a domestic violence incident, FOX 5 reported.
Authorities have identified the officer as Master Deputy Tamara Tuitt-Bartlett, a nearly 20-year veteran of the department.
Tuitt-Bartlett was found shot to death inside a townhouse in unincorporated Johns Creek, Forsyth County, after her teenage son, also shot multiple times, escaped the home and sought help from a neighbor. The neighbor administered first aid and called 911, actions authorities say likely saved the teen’s life. He remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Suspect arrested after pursuit
The suspect has been identified as Tuitt-Bartlett’s boyfriend, according to the report. The man fled the scene but was later apprehended in Monroe County following a pursuit on Interstate 75. He is now being held in the Forsyth County Jail, facing charges of homicide, murder and two counts of aggravated assault.
Community and department reaction
The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office called the killing “senseless” and noted that the death of a law enforcement officer “should hit home to every one of us.”
The Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office posted a tribute on social media, honoring Tuitt-Bartlett’s two decades of service.
“Her commitment to protecting and serving made a lasting impact on all who had the honor of knowing and working alongside her,” the post read. “Her loss is deeply felt throughout our agency and the entire community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”
