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Friday, October 9, 2026

The Gainesville Ledger

Public Safety

Armed Fort White man dies of self-inflicted gunshot after SWAT standoff

Columbia County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at a home on US Highway 27 in Fort White to serve arrest warrants on Barry Rush, 60, for a probation violation and DUI charge. Rush drew a handgun and retreated inside after encountering deputies, prompting a SWAT response and a prolonged standoff. Officers eventually entered the home and found Rush dead from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Sources: WCJB TV20

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