Walker County, GA – A domestic tragedy struck a small community in northwest Georgia last weekend, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and leaving an off-duty police officer fighting for his life. The violence erupted inside a private residence in Rock Spring, a quiet area nestled between Chickamauga and LaFayette.
Local authorities identified the assailant as 54-year-old Russell David Payne, who reportedly attacked his estranged wife, 54-year-old Jacklyn D. Payne, and her 79-year-old father, Eugene “Jack” Denny. Both were fatally wounded. The situation escalated fatally when Payne turned the gun on himself, ending the ordeal with his suicide.
Also caught in the gunfire was Chickamauga Police Officer Charles Dunn, aged 52, a close family friend of the victims. Despite being off-duty and dressed in civilian clothes, Officer Dunn was critically injured as he attempted to intervene during the attack.
The incident came to light around 7 p.m. on Saturday when a distressing 911 call was made from the home. Responding to the emergency, Walker County deputies arrived at the scene on Wood Station Road to find a grim outcome: three deceased and one critically injured.
Investigative reports indicate that Russell Payne approached the home, initially firing multiple .223 caliber rounds into the back of the house before entering and continuing his rampage. Officer Dunn, amidst the chaos, engaged with the shooter in an effort to halt the violence.
In response to this harrowing incident, Chickamauga Mayor Trey Deck expressed his distress and called upon the community to support Officer Dunn during his recovery. “The strength and hope of this community can serve as a crucial pillar for Officer Dunn and his family during these trying times,” Mayor Deck stated, emphasizing the officer’s long-standing service to the community.
Local authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the motive behind Payne’s actions and the complete circumstances of the attack. Meanwhile, the bodies have been transported to the GBI Crime Lab for autopsies.
As the community reels from this devastating event, support for the Dunn family has been pouring in, highlighting the tight-knit nature of this small Georgia community. Official updates on Officer Dunn’s condition remain pending as he continues to receive medical treatment.
This tragic episode underscores ongoing concerns over domestic violence and its broader impacts on communities. As the investigation continues, law enforcement and community leaders are urging all to remain vigilant and supportive of those affected by such tragedies.