A Georgia sheriff’s deputy tragically lost her life after being shot while responding to a 911 call reporting a domestic dispute in Hoschton. The incident, which occurred on the evening of Friday, December 8, 2025, has left the law enforcement community in mourning, and authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the deadly encounter.

The 43-year-old deputy, identified as Lena Nicole Marshall, was one of two deputies dispatched to the scene of a reported domestic disturbance. The call had come in from a residence in Hoschton, where homeowners had contacted authorities to remove a woman who was not supposed to be on the property.

The Call for Help

It was a routine evening for many across Georgia as the clock ticked into the night. But for the Marshall family, the evening would change forever as Lena Nicole Marshall, a dedicated and respected deputy, responded to a distress call that would ultimately claim her life.

At approximately 9:30 p.m., the local sheriff’s office received a 911 call from the residence of a couple in Hoschton, a small, close-knit town located about 40 miles northeast of Atlanta. The homeowners had been dealing with a woman named Jessica Worsham, who had reportedly entered their home without permission. Worsham, 43, was not known to the homeowners, and they were seeking law enforcement’s assistance in removing her from their property.

While the call itself didn’t seem particularly extraordinary, the situation quickly escalated into something no one could have anticipated.

The homeowners had claimed that Worsham was causing a disturbance and had refused to leave. Given the volatile nature of domestic situations, the sheriff’s office dispatched two deputies — including Lena Nicole Marshall — to the scene. Little did they know that the situation would become a deadly confrontation.

The Tragic Encounter

As Deputies Marshall and her partner arrived at the Hoschton home, they were unaware of the danger awaiting them. The scene, initially appearing to be a simple domestic dispute, soon turned into a violent confrontation that would leave one deputy dead and another deeply shaken.

According to authorities, as the deputies made their way to the home, they approached cautiously, knowing that domestic disputes can often turn dangerous. When the deputies arrived at the door, they encountered Worsham. Authorities stated that, without warning, Worsham pulled out a firearm and opened fire on the deputies.

Lena Marshall was struck by a gunshot and immediately fell to the ground. Her partner, who was also at the scene, returned fire, fatally wounding Worsham. The sheriff’s office said that Worsham was later found dead at the scene, but Deputy Marshall, despite being rushed to the hospital, succumbed to her injuries.

Marshall, a 43-year-old law enforcement officer with the sheriff’s office, had been with the department for several years. Her tragic death sent shockwaves through the local law enforcement community, and many who knew her described her as a dedicated, hardworking deputy who had always gone above and beyond in her service to the community.

Her loss was deeply felt by both her colleagues and the residents she had sworn to protect. In the days following the shooting, memorials and tributes began pouring in from across the state, honoring Deputy Marshall’s sacrifice in the line of duty.

Community Reaction and Mourning

The tragedy deeply impacted the town of Hoschton, the county, and the state of Georgia. As the news of the shooting spread, local residents expressed their shock and sadness. For many, the incident brought home the dangers that law enforcement officers face on a daily basis as they put their lives on the line to protect the public.

The sheriff’s office, which had worked closely with Deputy Marshall for years, issued a statement expressing their profound sadness and grief over her untimely death. “Deputy Lena Marshall was a dedicated officer who loved serving her community,” the statement read. “She leaves behind not only a legacy of service but a grieving family, both by blood and by badge. We will forever be grateful for her unwavering commitment to her job and the sacrifices she made.”

Local leaders and community members also voiced their support for Marshall’s family. A candlelight vigil was held outside the sheriff’s office in her honor, with residents coming together to remember her life and express their condolences to her family.

The emotional toll on her colleagues was also apparent, as the sheriff’s office noted that Marshall’s partner, who was also involved in the confrontation, was deeply affected by the events. Law enforcement officials acknowledged the psychological and emotional strain placed on officers who witness such traumatic events.

Investigation into the Shooting

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) was called to conduct an independent investigation into the events surrounding the deadly shooting. As is standard in situations involving law enforcement use of deadly force, the GBI will review the circumstances surrounding the shooting to determine whether the actions of the deputies were justified and to provide a thorough examination of the incident.

Preliminary reports indicate that the deputies were responding to a domestic disturbance call and that Worsham’s actions were sudden and unprovoked. The GBI will work to uncover further details, including any potential motivations behind Worsham’s behavior.

The investigation will also look into Worsham’s history, examining any potential factors that might have led to her violent reaction. Authorities will review records and interview witnesses to piece together the full picture of what transpired that night.

In the meantime, many are left grappling with the tragic outcome of what had begun as a routine call for help. Marshall’s death has served as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers who respond to calls involving domestic disputes, where emotions often run high and the risk of violence is ever-present.

Remembering Lena Nicole Marshall

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the memory of Deputy Lena Nicole Marshall lives on. Known for her compassionate service and dedication, Marshall’s death has left an indelible mark on the community she served.

In the wake of her passing, many have spoken of her kind and caring nature, both as a law enforcement officer and as a person. She had a reputation for going above and beyond, not only enforcing the law but also offering a helping hand to those in need. Her legacy of service will be remembered, and her dedication to protecting others will continue to inspire her colleagues and future generations of law enforcement officers.

A memorial service is planned in the coming days, where friends, family, and colleagues will gather to honor Deputy Marshall’s life and her service to her community. The sheriff’s office has vowed to continue supporting her family and colleagues as they navigate this difficult time.

A Reminder of the Risks Law Enforcement Face

The tragic death of Deputy Lena Nicole Marshall is a sobering reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. While they are often called upon to serve and protect, they face numerous dangers every day, many of which are unseen and unpredictable.

Domestic disputes are among the most dangerous calls for law enforcement, as they often involve highly charged emotions and can escalate quickly. The death of Deputy Marshall underscores the importance of ensuring law enforcement officers have the resources and support they need to navigate these difficult situations safely.

It also highlights the need for continued efforts to provide mental health support for officers, who are frequently exposed to traumatic events in the course of their work. As the investigation continues, there is a growing recognition of the importance of supporting the families of fallen officers and ensuring their legacies are honored.

Conclusion: Honoring a Fallen Hero

Deputy Lena Nicole Marshall’s death marks a tragic chapter in the lives of her family, her colleagues, and the community she served. Her bravery, service, and dedication will not be forgotten, and her sacrifice serves as a reminder of the courage and selflessness displayed by law enforcement officers across the country.

As the investigation into the shooting continues, the focus remains on honoring Deputy Marshall’s life and legacy. Her colleagues and community members are committed to ensuring that her memory lives on, and that her service to the people of Georgia is celebrated.

Deputy Lena Nicole Marshall may be gone, but her spirit of service and devotion to others will continue to inspire and guide those who knew her, and the memory of her sacrifice will live on in the hearts of those she touched.