Atlanta Police Spokeswoman Sylvia Abernathy tells WSB's Jennifer Griffies it all began just before 6 o'clock when police were called to shots being fired on Grant Way.

Abernathy says when they tried to arrest 45-year-old David Hensley, he fled, but not before before firing at police.

"In this particular case, an officer had to fire his gun. An internal investigation is a part of the administrative process when an officer has to fire. This, along with the allegations that excessive force was used in this case, will be a part of the investigation," said Abernathy.

Tony Harrison, who witnessed the incident, tells Channel 2 Action News, the officers were aggressive.

"They were hittin' him, stompin', and kickin' him," said Harrison.

Harrison's mother, Ruth Stubbs, who was at their Stonewall Street residence where the arrest took place, tells Channel 2 Action News, an officer told her, her son could've been killed.

"He said, 'ma'am, he fired, and he's lucky to be alive. He could be dead,'" said Stubbs.

Abernathy says it took several officers to subdue Hensley.

"The suspect resisted arrest. There was evidence of deadly force by the suspect, so there was more than one officer that was involved in bringing him into custody," said Abernathy.

Hensley, who was not injured, has been charged with numerous offenses including aggravated assault, obstruction, and reckless conduct.

The officer, who fired back at Hensley is on administrative leave.