TOWNS COUNTY, GA — On the afternoon of July 15, 2024, Bruce Douglas Partin Jr., a 39-year-old inmate trustee from the Towns County Detention Center, escaped from a work detail at the Towns County Transfer Station. Despite deploying drones and a K9 tracking unit, the Towns County Sheriff’s Office was initially unable to locate him. Partin was in custody awaiting trial on multiple charges, including marijuana distribution, theft, probation violation, and burglary.

Described as a tall white male with brown hair and eyes, Partin was last seen in an orange jumpsuit in the wooded area near the Transfer Station on Highway 288. The Sheriff’s Office offered a $500 reward for information leading to his capture.

Three days later, on July 18, a resident in the Gander Gap area of Fodder Creek Road spotted Partin and alerted authorities. As deputies converged on the area, another resident, Steven Kirby, was inside his home on Vester Road when his Labradoodle, Odie, began barking aggressively. Kirby, suspecting an intruder, armed himself and went outside, where he encountered Partin.

Kirby ordered Partin to the ground at gunpoint, and his wife, Amy, promptly called 911. Deputies arrived quickly and took Partin into custody around 7:10 PM, ending the search successfully.

Sheriff Ken Henderson praised the vigilance and bravery of the Fodder Creek community, particularly highlighting Steven Kirby’s decisive actions. The Sheriff expressed his gratitude, stating, “It is truly a pleasure to work in a community where we can count on the ongoing support of citizens like Mr. Kirby to stand behind us and, in cases like this, even physically aid us when necessary.”

The following day, the Kirby family visited the Sheriff’s Office to accept the reward and a commendation for their efforts. Sheriff Henderson, a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, lauded Kirby’s instincts and his commitment to protecting his family, property, and community.

This incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and responsible firearm ownership. Steven Kirby’s readiness to hold the suspect at gunpoint, which comes with its own risks, and the swift coordination with law enforcement serve as an exemplary reminder of the vital role citizens play in ensuring community safety.