HOMER — A volatile situation in Banks County came to a peaceful end Saturday night when a man who allegedly threatened to kill his family and responding law enforcement personnel was taken into custody.
“On Saturday at approximately 10:10 p.m., Banks County 9-1-1 advised Banks County deputies of a possible hostage situation occurring at a residence on Rock Springs Road,” said Banks County Sheriff’s Lt. Carissa McFaddin.
“Dispatchers advised responding personnel that the caller stated there was a male subject on scene that was threatening to kill his family along with any law enforcement who arrived,” McFaddin said. “As deputies were responding, the occupants inside the residence reported that the male subject was firing rounds outside. Banks County Sheriff's Office personnel made an immediate response to evacuate the occupants due to active gunfire. The male subject then ran from the scene. Neighbors in the area were contacted by Banks County 9-1-1 and advised of the situation.”
The Habersham County Special Response Team also was activated to assist in the search due to the alleged threats made and the report of the man firing a weapon.
But the situation ended peacefully after the man contacted Banks County Sheriff Carlton Speed.
“Within an hour, the male subject, identified as Travis Angel, contacted Sheriff Speed. Sheriff Speed was able to successfully negotiate with Angel, which led to his surrender at Banks County Sheriff's Office a short time later,” McFaddin said.
McFaddin credited interagency coordination and cooperation with the rapid response to the reported threat. No one was injured.
“We would like to thank Banks County 9-1-1 for their persistence, meticulous efforts and continuous attentiveness during this developing situation,” McFaddin said. “We would also like to thank Habersham County Special Response Team for their assistance with this incident.”
Travis Matthew Angel, 39, is being held in the Banks County Detention Center, charged with aggravated assault.
Additional charges are pending, McFaddin said Sunday afternoon.
