DeKalb County Officer Charged in Fatal Shooting of 19-year-old Seth Jayden Eccles

AVONDALE ESTATES, Georgia — A DeKalb County police officer has been charged with felony offenses after authorities say he fatally shot Seth Jayden Eccles, 19, during an attempted arrest in an Avondale Estates neighborhood. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) announced Wednesday that Officer Derrick Harris Jr., 37, faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and reckless conduct in connection with the shooting.

Timeline of Events

Early Tuesday afternoon, DeKalb County officers and U.S. Postal Inspection Service agents were searching for a suspect in the armed robbery of a mail carrier.

Officers initially encountered Eccles but allowed him to leave after speaking with him. Authorities later discovered he had an active arrest warrant.

Later that evening, residents reported a suspicious person moving through backyards along Rammel Way.

At approximately 7:45 p.m., Officer Harris located Eccles, who complied with commands and was in the process of being taken into custody when Harris discharged his firearm, striking him.

Emergency responders provided aid, and Eccles was transported to a hospital, where he later died.

Investigation and Charges

The GBI confirmed Harris will be booked into the DeKalb County Jail. Investigators have not explained why Harris fired his weapon after Eccles reportedly complied with commands. They also have not disclosed details about Eccles’ arrest warrant or whether he was armed. It remains unclear if body camera footage or other recordings captured the incident.

Community Response

DeKalb County Police Chief Greg Padrick expressed sympathy for Eccles’ family, acknowledging the tragedy’s impact on the department.

“My thoughts and prayers remain with the family of Seth Jayden Eccles as they continue to grieve this tragic loss,” Padrick said.

DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson also addressed the shooting, calling Eccles’ death a tragedy and emphasizing accountability.

“Today’s criminal charges and the termination of our officer reflect our commitment to accountability. We understand no one is above the law and that accountability is essential to maintaining public trust.”

Ongoing Inquiry

The GBI’s investigation remains active, with additional information expected as authorities continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting.

Our thoughts are with the family, friends, and loved ones of Seth Jayden Eccles as they mourn this heartbreaking loss.