Six-Hour Standoff Ends With North Augusta Man in Jail

North Augusta, SC—Investigators say at 9:00 Tuesday morning, someone from the VA hospital called 911 and told them that 50-year-old Jeffrey Allen Burlage was barricaded inside his home, threatening to kill himself.

North Augusta Department of Public Safety Officers, the SWAT team and Aiken County Deputies responded. At first, Burlage’s roommate was also inside that home, but came out shortly after the police showed up.

Throughout the day, negotiators, and Burlage’s girlfriend were on the phone with him, trying to persuade him to give up.

Lt. Tim Pearson, North Augusta Public Safety: “Just as we were about to advance to the residence, to breech the house, the individual came out, and voluntarily is being detained right now. We’re trying to find out what kind of emotional issues he might have.”

North Augusta Police Chief John Thomas was on the phone with Burlage during the day. Investigators say Burlage made threats against the chief’s life.

Burlage was arrested after he came out of his house, and charged with threatening a public official.

Officers searched the house Tuesday night, trying to find out if there was a weapon inside. No reports of any injuries. As to why the hospital made that initial 911 call…investigators say they will follow up to determine if Burlage was on medication at the time.