Deadly violence: Gov. Kemp declares State of Emergency, authorizes 1,000 National Guard troops

“Enough with the tough talk. We must protect the lives and livelihoods of all Georgians.”

–Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp

ATLANTA—Gov. Brian Kemp is authorizing the activation of the Georgia National Guard, following weeks of increased property destruction and deadly violence in the City of Atlanta and more than 30 Georgians wounded by gunfire, including five confirmed dead including an 8-year-old girl during the July Fourth weekend.

Kemp announced today that he is issuing Executive Order 07.06.20.01, which declares a State of Emergency across Georgia and activates up to 1,000 Georgia National Guard troops.

“Peaceful protests were hijacked by criminals with a dangerous, destructive agenda. Now, innocent Georgians are being targeted, shot, and left for dead,” said Gov. Kemp. “This lawlessness must be stopped and order restored in our capital city. I have declared a State of Emergency and called up the Georgia Guard because the safety of our citizens comes first. This measure will allow troops to protect state property and dispatch state law enforcement officers to patrol our streets. Enough with the tough talk. We must protect the lives and livelihoods of all Georgians.”

The Georgia Guard will provide support at state buildings, including the Georgia State Capitol, Georgia Department of Public Safety Headquarters, and Governor’s Mansion. This aid will allow state law enforcement personnel to increase patrols on roadways and throughout communities, especially those in the City of Atlanta.