AVONDALE ESTATES — Former DeKalb County police officer Derrick Harris Jr. was fired and charged with felony involuntary manslaughter and reckless conduct in connection with the July 7, 2024, shooting death of 19-year-old Seth Jayden Eccles in Avondale Estates, Georgia.

According to a warrant application filed by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Harris unintentionally shot Eccles while attempting to handcuff him with one hand and holding a gun to his back with the other. The application states Eccles was unarmed and lying face down with his hands behind his back when the shooting occurred.

Harris had responded to 911 calls reporting a suspicious person around 7:45 p.m. on July 7. After locating Eccles, Harris gave verbal commands at gunpoint. Eccles complied and was taken into custody before the shooting.

Earlier that day, U.S. Postal Inspection Service agents interviewed Eccles regarding an armed robbery of a mail carrier. Agents initially allowed him to leave but later realized he had an outstanding arrest warrant. DeKalb police assisted federal agents in locating Eccles, who fled into a wooded area when authorities attempted to apprehend him.

A spokesperson for the DeKalb County District Attorney's Office confirmed communication with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation regarding the shooting. "Based on the preliminary investigation, we all agreed there was probable cause to obtain warrants for the arrest of former officer Derrick Harris Jr.," the spokesperson said.

DeKalb County Police Chief Greg Padrick issued a statement extending thoughts and prayers to Eccles' family. DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson called the death a tragedy. "My heartfelt condolences are with his family and loved ones as they navigate an unimaginable loss," Cochran-Johnson said. "Today's criminal charges and the termination of our officer reflect our commitment to accountability. We understand no one is above the law and that accountability is essential to maintaining public trust."