BIBB COUNTY, GA — The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office has announced a major breakthrough in a harrowing case involving kidnapping and sexual assault that occurred earlier this month. In a joint effort between the Criminal Investigations Division, the Strategic Information Center, and the U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Taskforce, authorities have arrested 47-year-old Antonio Eugene Copeland of Macon in connection with the violent crime.
Incident Summary
The attack occurred on the night of Tuesday, July 15, 2025, just before midnight, along a stretch of Eisenhower Parkway near Fulton Mill Road. According to the victim’s account, she was walking along the road when she was approached by a man driving a white sport utility vehicle who offered her a ride. The victim declined the offer and continued walking.
Tragically, moments later, the man reappeared—this time on foot, approaching the victim from behind. When the victim attempted to flee, the suspect brandished a firearm and fired a shot. Though the victim was not struck by the gunfire, she was then violently physically and sexually assaulted by the man.
The suspect later forced the victim into his vehicle and drove her to a convenience store on Sardis Church Road, where the victim saw an opportunity to escape. Showing immense courage and presence of mind, she managed to get away and contacted 911. By the time law enforcement arrived, the suspect had fled the scene.
Swift Action and Arrest
Investigators immediately launched a full-scale investigation. Thanks to forensic analysis, surveillance footage, and coordinated intelligence efforts, law enforcement was able to identify Antonio Eugene Copeland as a suspect.
In the early hours of Tuesday, July 22, law enforcement officials executed a search and arrest warrant at a residence in Macon, where Copeland was apprehended without incident. He was immediately transported to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters for questioning and subsequently transferred to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.
Charges and Legal Status
Antonio Eugene Copeland now faces multiple felony charges, including:
- Kidnapping
- Rape
Authorities confirmed that Copeland is being held without bond, reflecting the serious nature of the charges and ongoing concerns for public safety.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Statement
The investigation remains active, and officials are working to determine whether Copeland may be connected to other unsolved crimes in the region. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with additional information related to this incident or other potential victims to come forward.
Sheriff David Davis praised the swift and coordinated efforts of all involved agencies:
“This was an absolutely horrifying act of violence, and our hearts go out to the victim. Thanks to the relentless work of our investigators, strategic units, and partners in the U.S. Marshals Taskforce, a dangerous individual has been removed from our streets. Justice will be pursued with full force.”
A Community on Alert
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, reigniting conversations about public safety and violence against women. Local leaders and advocacy groups are calling for increased resources for survivors of sexual assault and expanded outreach programs to help prevent similar crimes.
The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office reminds the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behavior. Victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact local crisis centers, and community members are asked to continue supporting law enforcement efforts to bring offenders to justice.
Contact Information
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-751-7500 or Macon’s CrimeStoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.
Justice is underway—but the work continues. The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office stands committed to protecting all members of the community and ensuring that no victim suffers in silence.
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