Attorney releases statement on behalf of one of the officers involved in deadly Savannah shooting

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Keith Barber, an attorney representing a Savannah Police officer involved in the fatal shooting of Nicholas Oxendine offered condolences to the victim’s family Thursday while defending the officer’s actions.

SEE: Officers hospitalized after fatal Savannah shooting, GBI investigating

“On behalf of myself and the Officer who reluctantly had to shoot Nicholas Oxendine we would like to first offer our condolences to his family,” the statement said. “They have lost a loved one and we understand the grief they must be experiencing. Our hearts and thoughts go out to each of them.”

The attorney said Oxendine’s actions led to the shooting.

SEE: Records detail background of man killed in Savannah officer-involved shooting

“Unfortunately, Mr. Oxendine’s very actions created the situation which cost him his life. He was non-compliant and assaulted both Officer’s involved in this case. Mr. Oxendine put the Officer in a position where she felt her life and well being were in extreme jeopardy. The Officer involved acted in self-defense. We ask you to please wait for all the facts before any judgements are made in this matter. I feel confident it will surely come to pass that this Officer was only doing her job to protect herself, her fellow Officer, and most importantly the Citizens of the Great City of Savannah,” the statement said.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is conducting an independent investigation into the shooting, which occurred Tuesday morning near Bull Street and Victory Drive. Oxendine, 35, was pronounced dead at an area hospital. Both officers sustained minor injuries.

Once the GBI completes its investigation, the case file will be forwarded to the Eastern Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.