Police called it a drive-by shooting. But surveillance video reportedly showed a plainclothes Fulton County deputy pursuing a man from an unmarked Honda with no lights or siren. Atlanta Police concluded that Deputy Evans Lafond did not identify himself before firing. Ivan Watson said he believed an armed stranger was chasing his brother and fired back after the man shot first. Watson told investigators to check the cameras. The video reportedly supported the key part of his account, and he was released without charges. Lafond later wrote that he never fired—but APD’s report said he did, and investigators found a separate casing beside his vehicle. So naturally, accountability followed. Just kidding. He received a bravery commendation and was promoted to sergeant. Watch the full investigation on the channel. 📄 Story tips, resources & support 👉 https://www.thinblueliesmedia.com Submit police accountability tips, bodycam footage, public records, court documents, and local story leads. 👕 Thin Blue Lies merch: https://www.youtube.com/@thinblueliesmedia/store Source: Atlanta News First Investigates https://www.atlantanewsfirst.com/2026/07/09/shooter-freed-because-deputy-said-police-only-after-he-was-shot/ #PoliceAccountability #PoliceMisconduct #ThinBlueLies

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