Zadarious Dorsey Obituary, Death – 18-Year-Old Killed in Newnan Police Shooting
The Newnan, Georgia, community is mourning the death of Zadarious Dorsey, an 18-year-old Newnan resident who died Saturday, October 3, 2026, after being shot by a Newnan police officer during a foot pursuit.
Dorsey’s death has left family members, friends and others in the community grieving the loss of a young life as authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the officer-involved shooting.
According to preliminary information released by investigators, the incident began at approximately 1 a.m. when a Newnan police officer observed a white vehicle near Dodson Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The officer followed the vehicle until it stopped on Cliff Circle and then approached the occupants.
Five men exited the vehicle. Investigators said one person walked toward a nearby home while four others ran from the area. The officer pursued one of the individuals, who was later identified as Dorsey.
Foot Pursuit Ends in Fatal Shooting
During the foot pursuit, the officer reportedly ordered Dorsey to stop, but he continued running. Investigators said the officer deployed a Taser, but it was ineffective.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said the officer then saw Dorsey pull a firearm from the area of his waistband. According to investigators, the officer issued additional commands for Dorsey to stop and drop the weapon before firing multiple shots.
Officers provided medical assistance at the scene until emergency medical personnel arrived. Dorsey was transported to a hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Investigators said a firearm was recovered at the scene. No police officers were injured during the incident.
Community Mourns Zadarious Dorsey
Dorsey’s death has brought grief to the Newnan community, particularly among family members and friends who are now facing the loss of an 18-year-old.
For those who knew him, the circumstances of his final moments are now part of a tragedy that remains under investigation. His loved ones are left to remember his life while authorities work to establish a complete account of what happened during the early-morning pursuit.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is handling the investigation at the request of the Newnan Police Department. The independent investigation is examining the events leading up to the shooting and the actions of the officer involved.
GBI Investigation Continues
Dorsey’s body is expected to be taken to the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy as investigators continue collecting evidence and documenting the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The GBI investigation remains active. Once investigators complete their work, the case is expected to be submitted to the Coweta Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.
As the investigation continues, Zadarious Dorsey’s family, friends and members of the Newnan community are mourning the death of an 18-year-old whose life ended during a police encounter that remains under independent review.
