JASPER GEORGIA, A North Georgia community is mourning following a tragic shooting at the Pickens VA Clinic in Jasper that resulted in two deaths and remains under active investigation.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed that agents were requested by the Jasper Police Department to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred on March 17 at the VA outpatient clinic on East Church Street.
According to officials, 34-year-old Nicholas “Nic” Crews of Marietta was working as a social work case manager when he was shot inside the facility by 51-year-old Lawrence Charles Michels of Jasper.
Investigators said Michels had arrived at the clinic seeking a walk-in mental health consultation.
The shooting occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. Crews suffered critical injuries and was airlifted to a trauma center for emergency treatment.
Despite medical efforts, he died from his injuries the following day, March 18.
Authorities reported that after the shooting, Michels exited the building while still armed with a handgun. Outside, he encountered responding officers as well as an armed civilian.
An exchange of gunfire followed between Michels, law enforcement, and the civilian. Michels was struck during the exchange and was pronounced dead at the scene. No law enforcement officers were injured.
The loss of Nic Crews has had a significant impact on his family and the community.
He is remembered as a husband and father who was expecting the birth of his third child.
Crews had recently returned to school to pursue a career in social work and was known for his efforts to support others and contribute to his community.
Those who knew him described him as being involved in his church and committed to helping people in need.
His death has left his family facing emotional loss as well as financial challenges as they prepare to welcome a new child.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have stated that additional details will be released as they become available.
