Bibb County, GA, April 20, 2023 – On July 30, 2021, Christopher Leon Woods, 60 years of age, shot and killed Freddie Lee Battle inside a home at 7548 Bethel Church Road in Lizella. Alcohol-fueled Woods called 911 and admitted that he had shot and killed “his best friend” over ongoing frustration between the two men. Evidence showed that Woods shot 69-year-old Battle from behind while Battle was sitting in a chair. Having been convicted of Aggravated Assault in 1994, Woods was a convicted felon and was legally prohibited from having a gun.
Despite this, Christopher Woods had a hunting rifle that he got from his bedroom and used to kill Battle. The case was presented to a Bibb County jury over two days. The jury found Woods Guilty of All Counts to include Malice Murder, Felony Murder and Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Woods was sentenced to life in prison.
“The jury has spoken and sent a strong message that this community will not tolerate firearms in the hands of those who cannot legally possess them and who, moreover, engage in senseless violent acts. These individuals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Mr. Battle.” DA Howard
The Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office particularly thanks the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this case.
