THOMASVILLE — A cinder block thrown through a police car window resulted in an arrest the day of a police shooting, but otherwise the aftermath has been peaceful, Thomasville Police Chief Troy Rich said Saturday.

Rich said the 10:30 p.m. Tuesday incident at Fern and Magnolia streets took place immediately after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrived and began processing the scene of the shooting.

Thomas County/Thomasville Narcotics/Vice Division agents went to 419 Magnolia about 4:15 p.m. Tuesday to serve a search warrant at the house. Herbert Gilbert, who lives at the residence, was fatally shot by drug agent Josh Smith.

The GBI is processing evidence from the scene, interviewing witnesses and looking at video recorded by drug agents’ body cams.

The incident did not involve a pursuit. Two vehicles collided at the scene, a GBI agent said.

According to a Thomasville Police Department incident report, a police officer saw Michael Dismuke pick up a cinder block and throw it through the rear window of the parked police unit. The reports says Dismuke fled but was soon taken into custody by the officer.

People protesting the shooting have marched on downtown sidewalks and at the Jail-Justice Center.

“The demonstrators are marching peacefully,” Rich said. “We have coordinated with the leader of the group.”

Police shifts are being adequately staffed to provide a safe community, the chief said.

Rich said police are doing “a phenomenal job,” working hard and working long hours. Despite being tired, officers have good attitudes, he said.

“They are the true examples of leaders, my police,” Rich said. 

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820