Newly released body camera and surveillance footage is shedding light on the tense encounter that happened just days before Warm Springs Police Sgt. Chris Fisher was killed.
The footage, released Thursday, shows Fisher arresting Jimmy Steverson on August 27. Steverson was later accused of fatally shooting the sergeant just five days afterward.
According to police, Fisher initially stopped Steverson after smelling what appeared to be marijuana coming from his truck. A newly released timeline states that Steverson admitted to drinking and became increasingly noncompliant as Fisher continued the investigation.
The encounter eventually turned physical as Fisher attempted to handcuff Steverson. Police said Fisher tried to perform a leg sweep, but tripped and fell backward. Steverson fell with him, landing on top of the officer. The two then struggled on the ground and exchanged strikes, according to the timeline.
After creating distance, Fisher deployed his Taser as Steverson allegedly attempted to flee.
However, the device did not make full contact.
“The taser did not make complete contact with Steverson, only striking Steverson with one probe, which did strike Steverson in the right earlobe.”
Fisher, who was reportedly the only officer at the scene during the struggle, eventually placed Steverson in handcuffs. Steverson was evaluated by EMS and transported to Warm Springs Medical Center for medical clearance before being taken to the Meriwether County Jail, according to the Warm Springs Police Department.
Authorities also seized more than $5,000, two AR-style rifles, and a Micro Draco firearm.
Five days later, investigators said Steverson shot and killed Fisher while the sergeant was sitting in his patrol car. Police have not determined a motive, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s probe remains ongoing.
Warm Springs Police Chief Matt Mayfield addressed the tragedy in a statement:
“September 1, 2026 was a very dark moment for the City of Warm Springs, and the Fisher family.
Since that time our community and state have come together to remember Sergeant Fisher and show support to his family and fellow officers. While there are certainly some questions that may not be answered at this time, my hope is that we can all begin the process of healing and find a path forward. Again, I can’t thank those enough that have assisted my agency during this tough time”