Fairburn mourns death of decorated police sergeant

The city of Fairburn is mourning the loss of beloved police Sergeant Jean-Harold Astree. Sgt. Astree, 54, was involved in a fatal car crash July 28 in Douglas County and died as a result of his injuries.

He had been employed with Fairburn since April 2018 and worked with the city previously in 2011.

“The city is heartbroken due to the tragic loss of Sgt. Astree,” Mayor Mario B. Avery said in a statement. “Today our city has lost a hero for public safety and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. We thank all the surrounding jurisdictions for stepping in to assist us during this difficult time.”

Sgt. Astree was a decorated officer and “a true hero who served the residents and businesses of the city of Fairburn with pride,” a news release said.

He also served in the military and was a United States Air Force veteran.

“Our officers appreciate the support of the city of Fairburn and the community during this extraordinarily painful time,” Chief of Police James McCarthy said in a statement. “We extend our deepest condolences to Sgt. Astree’s family, friends, and fellow officers. We will do all that we can to support them during this painful time.”

Sgt. Astree leaves behind a wife and children.