Swainsboro, GA: One dead in Brown Street altercation

Around 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 5, Swainsboro Police received a call from Emanuel County EMS, which had been dispatched to 230 Brown Street, the residence of Alexander Coppock, Jr., 46, and his girlfriend, Gloria Jackson, 55.

EMS was dispatched for Coppock, who was said to be ill at the scene. Upon arrival, EMS noted something unusual at the scene and alerted SPD. Both residents were at home when officers responded.

"There were marks on the body that appeared to be from an assault," said Chief Randy Ellison. "EMS transported Coppock to Emanuel Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 6:49 p.m."

Officers secured the scene and began gathering evidence, and Jackson was also brought to Emanuel Medical Center. She is currently being held as a suspect in this crime at Emanuel County Jail pending charges.

"We know there is a past history with these two, according to witnesses, with domestic violence related issues. We've been told that there were constant arguments between the two," said Chief Ellison. "We know there was an argument going on prior to EMS being called. We feel it is a domestic violence type situation that went badly."

"It appears from first indications that it is a single stab wound to the chest. The GBI has been called to assist us with the crime scene," said Chief Ellison. "Investigators are currently working with those who witnessed the argument prior to the incident as well as previous incidents. It is unclear what the issue was at this time, but we are clear that there was an argument that led to an altercation between the victim and suspect."

There are prior domestic dispute issues with both Coppock and Jackson, though there have been few involving both.

"Neighbors have said that [arguments between Coppock and Jackson] were a common thing," explained Chief Ellison. "They didn't call [the Police] because it was such a common thing that they didn't think anything about it in this instance."

The case is still under investigation, and officers are working to determine charges. Changes in this case will be posted as they are made available.