A Haralson County Sheriff’s deputy was involved in the shooting of a criminal suspect during a struggle for the deputy’s weapon on Highway 78 in Bremen on Saturday.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Joe Nash was dispatched to 5137 Highway 78 East in Bremen in response to a domestic disturbance. After arriving at the scene, Nash encountered Bill Ray Poss Jr., 39, sitting in a vehicle in the residence’s drive way.

Poss allegedly brandished two knives at Nash and refused to comply with the deputy’s orders. Nash then attempted to arrest Poss, resulting in a struggle. While struggling with Nash, Poss allegedly attempted to seize the deputy’s weapon. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the weapon was fired and a single bullet struck Poss in the face.

Nash took Poss into custody and called for medical treatment for Poss’ injury. At Higgins General Hospital in Bremen, Poss received treatment for the gunshot wound to his left cheek and was released the same day.

Poss was charged with aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and felony obstruction after being transferred to the Haralson County Jail. Nash has been placed on administrative leave in accordance with Sheriff’s Office policy.

“Office policy is to place any officer involved in a shooting on administrative leave with pay pending the outcome of an internal investigation,” said Haralson County Sheriff Eddie Mixon.

Mixon added that he believes the investigation will be concluded quickly. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Nash has more than 10 years of law enforcement experience. He has been serving as a Haralson County Sheriff’s deputy for the past six months.

“I think it is a blessing that neither Deputy Nash nor Mr. Poss were injured more severely,” Mixon said. “In law enforcement, there is no such thing as a routine call; any call can take a quick turn for the worse. Domestic disturbance calls are especially volatile.”