Athens police officer placed on administrative leave after firing on homeless man with knives, police say

Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been called in to investigate after Athens-Clarke police say one of their officers fired on a person who "brandished a bladed weapon." 

John Weeks, age 44, of Athens, was the person shot and injured in the incident, Athens police reported. 

Preliminary information released by Athens-Clarke PD indicates that on Monday, July 27, 2026, at about 4:30 p.m., a Homeless Day Service Center employee noticed a man yelling outside the front door of the center, located at 240 North Avenue, in Athens, GA.

The employee opened the door to check on Weeks and he continued yelling at the employee, holding knives in each of his hands. 

The employee then shut the front door and requested assistance from an ACCPD officer who was working in an off-duty capacity at the center. 

After additional officers arrived on scene, officers approached Weeks and gave verbal commands for him to drop the knives. Weeks refused to comply and began walking towards officers. One officer then shot at Weeks, striking him.

He was later transported to Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center.

No officers were injured.

Athens police reported earlier that the officer involved was placed on administrative leave following the incident.

GBI says it will conduct an independent investigation. 

CBS News Atlanta will continue to provide updates as more information is confirmed.