In the early hours of September 21st, 2023, Mr. Nathaniel “Nate” Shearer was on his way to work at Gilmer Warehouse when he decided to make a quick stop at Circle K on Sam Nunn Blvd. Shearer planned to simply purchase items to begin his day. What he did not expect was to interrupt a violent armed assault against an unsuspecting woman in the parking lot.
Upon turning into the parking lot, Shearer observed a male attacking a young lady, who was lying on her back attempting to defend herself from the assailant who was armed with a knife. Shearer quickly stopped his car and exited to the aid of the victim, at which point the suspect fled the scene. Shearer drew a concealed firearm and aimed at the fleeing suspect, but exercised extreme restraint and did not fire.
Once the suspect was a safe distance away, Shearer holstered his weapon, immediately responded to the victim and offered aid while remaining with her for first responders to arrive. The suspect was apprehended in the area by law enforcement minutes later without further incident. Further investigation revealed that the predator stalked the victim while in the store and waited for her to exit. The suspect is currently being held without bond and is facing thirty years to life in prison.
Shearer’s presence, although coincidental, had a direct impact on the outcome of this violent and rare incident. It is certain, however, that Shearer’s response to the incident prevented further injury and incident. With disregard for his personal safety, Nate Shearer placed himself directly into harm’s way to protect a stranger and is highly deserving of this recognition.