Former Cobb County Deputy Julie Ann Barrs Dies in Murray County Flood

Julie Ann Barrs, a 56-year-old former Cobb County deputy, died on Nov. 5 when floodwaters swept her vehicle into rushing water on Old CCC Camp Road in Murray County. Officials confirmed the Murray County Medical Examiner identified her as the driver.

Emergency crews conducted approximately 100 rescues across North Georgia during the storm. Fannin County accounted for 97 of those rescues, while Gilmer County recorded three. Swiftwater rescue teams and responders from multiple agencies assisted in the recovery efforts.

Barrs was born in Atlanta and lived in Cobb County and Alpharetta before relocating to Ellijay. She graduated from Pebblebrook High School and holds a master’s degree in psychology. Her online obituary notes she previously worked for the U.S. Marshals Service on human trafficking cases.

During her tenure with the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, Barrs served as the first woman on the department’s SWAT team. At the time of her death, she worked at a Pilgrim’s processing plant in North Georgia. She was also a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Ellijay.

Barrs is survived by her brother, Jeff Barrs, and his wife, Vicki, who live in Douglasville. She is also survived by her dogs, Dutchess and Winston, and several cousins. The family plans to schedule a celebration of life at a later date. They suggest donations to a local humane society or animal shelter in lieu of flowers.