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Written by: E. George
Published October 9, 2024 @ 12:15 PM ET
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ga. – An off-duty Atlanta police officer who had just earned the title of “Investigator of the Year” was shot and killed by a Douglas County homeowner on Friday, October 4, 2024, after reportedly breaking into a house. The sheriff’s office said deputies responded to a reported burglary attempt at the Orkney Way residence at approximately 5:00 AM.
Captain Jon Mauney stated, “A person attempted to gain entry into the residence; when he gained entrance, the homeowner produced a firearm in self-defense and shot the individual. We believe the burglar lived in the neighborhood.”
A shocked neighbor, said, “I’ve lived here for five years, and I can promise you, this isn’t something you expect to see here.”
The Atlanta Police Department confirmed the deceased as Aubree Clay Horton, who joined the agency in November 2015. Horton had just been deemed “Investigator of the Year” at the annual “Crime is Toast” awards breakfast hosted by the Atlanta Police Foundation on September 24.
Horton was a member of the Atlanta Police Department’s fugitive unit. The agency stated, “We’re working closely with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to learn more about what occurred as they investigate the incident.”
The sheriff’s office explained that video footage of the incident depicted Horton as possibly suffering from a mental health crisis or under the influence of unknown drugs or alcohol. A woman at the scene who said she was Horton’s girlfriend confirmed his death.
Several of Horton’s colleagues and former coworkers were heard expressing sorrow and grief. One individual said Horton was a loving father and proud to wear a badge.
This investigation remains open.