Details emerge in Dooly County SWAT standoff, death

The GBI released more details Saturday of a SWAT standoff that led to a Dooly County resident being killed.

The GBI identified Joseph Harper, of Vienna, as the man that was found dead after authorities heard a gunshot inside his Nelson Corner Road home that afternoon. The incident escalated after Harper began firing shots at law enforcement officers, and at least one round of ammunition was fired back at him, a news release said.

Earlier that day, Harper was wearing a bullet resistant vest, holding a shotgun and had several handguns in holsters while deputies were on site as property was being removed as part of a divorce decree, the release said.

Dooly County sheriff's deputies and another person at the home left, but after talking with Harper came back "in an attempt to retrieve the remaining property." While there, Harper allegedly lowered the barrel of his shotgun in the direction of the deputies, which lead to them requesting the help of a Special Response Team.

Law enforcement from Crisp, Turner and Tift counties as well as the Lowndes County and Georgia State Patrol SWAT responded,

"Harper exited and entered his residence multiple times wearing a bullet resistant vest, gas mask, and other weapons to include a long gun and handguns," the release said.

Authorities then fired canisters of gas and less-lethal deterrents. Harper was discovered dead inside his living room after a gunshot was heard coming from inside, according to the release.

The GBI is conducting an independent investigation of the incident.

This story was originally published April 16, 2016 at 6:55 PM with the headline "Details emerge in Dooly County SWAT standoff, death ."