In September 2025, a quiet Friday night in McCaysville, Georgia, turned into a moment that would deeply impact the community and law enforcement across the state.
Just before 11 p.m., McCaysville police officers responded to a call regarding a suspicious vehicle on Central Avenue. Less than a mile away, in the 350 block of 1st Street, the situation escalated. Captain Brantley Worley, a 15-year law enforcement veteran who had been promoted to Captain just two months earlier, was shot in the throat during the response.
Captain Worley was airlifted to a hospital in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where officials later confirmed the severity of his injuries. According to McCaysville Police Chief Michael Earley, Worley suffered a broken neck, bleeding on the brain, and fluid in his lungs.
In the hours following the shooting, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation issued a Blue Alert to assist in locating the suspect. A Blue Alert is reserved for incidents involving the serious injury or death of a law enforcement officer and was sent to cell phones across Fannin, Gilmer, and Union counties. Authorities identified the suspect as 26-year-old Timothy Craig Ramsey, who was later charged with aggravated assault with intent to murder a police officer.
As updates emerged in the days following the incident, Chief Earley shared encouraging news about Captain Worley’s condition. “This is truly nothing short of a miracle,” Earley wrote.
He said that Worley would remain nearby with his wife and was scheduled to return to the hospital the following Tuesday afternoon for reconstructive surgery on his nose.
News of the shooting spread quickly, drawing statewide attention and support. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp shared his sympathy publicly, expressing concern for Captain Worley and gratitude for the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers.
While the events of that night were tragic, Captain Worley’s story is also one of resilience and service. His dedication to McCaysville and his years of commitment to protecting others have not gone unnoticed. As his recovery continued, he remained a powerful reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face and the strength it takes to serve.