In a tragic turn of events that has shocked the community of Woodstock, Alabama, Joseph Tyler Goodson, a central character from the popular "S-Town" podcast, has died after being shot by police during a standoff on Sunday. The incident took place in Goodson's home, which officers had been dispatched to early Sunday morning.

According to Jeremy Burkett, a spokesperson for the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Goodson, 32, barricaded himself in the house and brandished a gun when confronted by the officers surrounding the premises. In response, the officers discharged their firearms, resulting in Goodson's fatal injuries. The State Bureau of Investigation has launched an inquiry into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Woodstock Mayor Jeff Dodson expressed his condolences, remarking on the love and affection the community held for Goodson. He acknowledged the impact of the "S-Town" podcast, stating, "Tyler was well known and loved by myself, his family, and this community. That love extends far beyond due to the S-Town podcast."

The details behind the initial 911 call that led to officers being dispatched remain unclear. It is also unknown at this time whether any disciplinary actions will be taken against the officers involved. Mayor Dodson revealed that Woodstock police initially responded to the call and requested backup at the scene. The identities of the officers involved in the incident have not been publicly disclosed.

Joseph Tyler Goodson rose to prominence after being featured in the seven-episode "S-Town" podcast released in 2017 by Serial Productions. Brian Reed, a producer of "This American Life," hosted the podcast, which originally aimed to investigate a murder that John McLemore, a vintage clock restorer from Woodstock, believed had occurred in the town.

However, the podcast quickly shifted focus to delve into McLemore's intricate life and tragic death by suicide. Goodson, a close friend of McLemore who worked on his land, was interviewed by Reed as they explored the complex relationship between the two. Goodson faced legal troubles related to property taken from McLemore's land and pleaded guilty to burglary, theft of property, and criminal trespassing in October 2017.

Following the release of "S-Town," Goodson attracted significant attention, with millions of listeners tuning in to the podcast. The newfound popularity brought both Goodson and Woodstock into the national spotlight, with Goodson receiving daily messages from fans worldwide, as he revealed in a 2018 interview with Esquire.

The investigation into Joseph Tyler Goodson's death will be concluded by the state, and the findings will be presented to the Bibb County district attorney, according to spokesperson Jeremy Burkett. Woodstock Mayor Jeff Dodson emphasized that Goodson was much more than just a character to the fans, describing him as a father, son, brother, and friend to many.

The tragic loss of Joseph Tyler Goodson has left the community mourning, as they grapple with the aftermath of his untimely death.