Former Cobb Sheriff's Deputy Found Dead After Flood Swept Her Car

Julie Barrs, a former deputy with the Cobb County sheriff's office, was killed in a flooding incident in Murray County. Her body was discovered 2.5 miles downstream from the location of her vehicle near Old CCC Camp Road.

Murray County officials confirmed the death, and the coroner identified Barrs as the victim. The crash occurred late Wednesday, south of McCaysville. A neighbor, Dottie Billingsley, reported that Barrs attempted to drive her car through rushing water. Billingsley stated that the bridge over the stream was locked, forcing Barrs to take the road through the water.

Billingsley described the scene as Barrs' car was swept away. The neighbor recalled hearing Barrs scream for help while the water moved with great force. Another resident tried to grab a rope to assist, while Barrs held onto her seat belt. Billingsley found the car the following morning, noting a tree lay across the hood against the windshield and debris surrounded the vehicle.

Barrs had served on the Cobb County SWAT team. Rachel Gondek, a former colleague, described Barrs as a kind individual who was a mentor to many in law enforcement. Gondek said Barrs gave valuable lessons that she would never forget and noted that Barrs never gave up on anything she attempted.

Barrs' neighbor said the loss was very hard to comprehend. The former deputy is remembered by colleagues as a great friend and a person who would give others the shirt off her back.