Gov. Brian Kemp and law enforcement agencies from throughout Georgia are offering condolences via social media following Sunday’s fatal shooting of Hall County Deputy Nicholas Dixon.

“Terrible news out of Hall County today,” Kemp posted. “Our prayers are with the deputy's loved ones as they mourn and local law enforcement as they work to catch the suspects.”

Deputies exchanged gunfire with suspects believed to be linked to area break-ins and burglaries  in Gainesville shortly after 11 p.m. Sunday, the AJC's Chelsea Prince reports. One suspect was wounded.

Dixon, 28, was a married father of two young children. He had been with the department for three years.

Here’s the latest from the Hall County Sheriff’s Office:

Gainesville police, Gwinnett County police and Georgia State Patrol troopers have joined the search for other suspects. Agencies across the state are sharing messages of sympathy and support.

“Our hearts are with the family, blood and blue, of the Hall County Sheriff’s deputy who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” a message from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation reads. “We thank you for your service and will continue to pray for your family, friends and the Hall County Sheriff’s Office.”

Return for updates.

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8/26/17 - Atlanta, GA - Georgia leaders, including Gov. Nathan Deal, Sandra Deal, members of the King family, and Rep. Calvin Smyre,  were on hand for unveiling of the first statue of Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday at the statehouse grounds, more than three years after Gov. Nathan Deal first announced the project.  During the hour-long ceremony leading to the unveiling of the statue of Martin Luther King Jr. at the state Capitol on Monday, many speakers, including Gov. Nathan Deal, spoke of King's biography. The statue was unveiled on the anniversary of King's famed "I Have Dream" speech. BOB ANDRES  /BANDRES@AJC.COM

Credit: Bob Andres