AUGUSTA, GEORGIA — A deadly shooting on Sunday afternoon in Augusta has left a 14-year-old boy dead and three others injured, sparking a large-scale law enforcement response and a manhunt for suspects involved in the violent attack. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the incident, which occurred near the intersection of Meadowbrook Drive and Deans Bridge Road, involving two separate shooting locations: an Advance Auto Parts store and a nearby Texaco gas station.
The Tragic Incident
According to law enforcement officials, the shooting began around 6:00 p.m. when multiple shots were fired at both locations, leaving four people injured, one fatally. The deceased victim has been identified as 14-year-old Deandre Howell, who was shot at least once outside the Advance Auto Parts store. Howell was pronounced dead at the scene by the Richmond County Coroner’s Office.
“At approximately 6:05 p.m., we received reports of the shooting, and upon arrival, we found a young victim who had been shot multiple times,” said the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office in an official statement. “Sadly, the victim, identified as Deandre Howell, was pronounced dead at the scene.”
The Other Victims and Shooting Locations
Two additional victims were shot at the Advance Auto Parts store, while two others were struck by gunfire at the Texaco gas station. Law enforcement officials have not yet confirmed the identities of the other victims or their affiliations but stated that they are expected to survive. Witnesses on the scene indicated that some of the individuals involved in the shooting were part of a group known as the “Water Boys” — young individuals who regularly sell bottled water to drivers in the area.
In addition to the two shooting locations, a vehicle was reportedly fired upon and later stopped in a separate parking lot. No further details have been provided regarding the vehicle or the individuals inside.
Manhunt and Law Enforcement Response
The incident has prompted a significant law enforcement response, with multiple agencies joining forces to search for the suspects responsible. Richmond County Sheriff’s deputies, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Richmond County Coroner’s Office are all involved in the investigation. Drones have also been deployed for aerial surveillance and to assist in tracking down any remaining suspects.
During an on-scene press conference, Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard confirmed that multiple suspects had been taken into custody, but at least one individual remains at large. “We are actively searching for those involved in the shooting,” Blanchard said. “One suspect fled the scene on foot and is believed to be hiding in a nearby backyard.”
As law enforcement continues to investigate the crime scene, the Meadowbrook area has been completely shut down to both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Authorities are asking residents to avoid the area until the search and investigation have concluded.
“This is a very active and developing situation,” Blanchard stated. “We are urging everyone to stay clear of the Meadowbrook area as our officers work to secure the scene and identify all individuals involved.”
Community and Official Reactions
Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson was also present at the scene, receiving updates from law enforcement officials and surveying the area. “This is an unfortunate and tragic event, and we are doing everything we can to ensure justice is served for Deandre and all the victims involved,” Johnson said in a brief statement.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents expressing their disbelief at the violent act. “I can’t believe this happened here, especially with such young people involved,” said a local resident who witnessed the aftermath of the shooting. “This neighborhood is usually pretty quiet, but now we’re all on edge.”
Investigation and Ongoing Search
At this time, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has not released further details regarding the possible motive behind the shooting or the identities of the remaining victims. Investigators are continuing to comb through evidence, speak with witnesses, and review surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes. Authorities have not confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or if it was the result of a random act of violence.
“We are working diligently to gather all the facts and determine exactly what happened leading up to this tragic incident,” said Sheriff Richard Roundtree. “Our goal is to identify the suspects and bring them to justice as soon as possible.”
Law enforcement officials have urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office at 706-821-1080, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC.
The Water Boys and Concerns Over Youth Violence
The shooting has also raised concerns about the safety and well-being of Augusta’s youth, especially the group known as the “Water Boys.” These young individuals, often seen selling bottled water to passing motorists, have become a fixture in the area, but recent violence has highlighted the potential dangers they face.
Community leaders have expressed their concerns about the rising violence involving young people in Augusta. “We need to do more to protect our youth and keep them away from situations like this,” said local activist Sharon Williams. “It’s heartbreaking that someone as young as Deandre Howell had to lose his life. We need to focus on providing better opportunities for these young people so they aren’t caught up in violence.”
The Way Forward
As authorities continue their search for the remaining suspects and work to piece together the details of what led to the shooting, the community of Augusta is left grappling with the loss of a young life. The tragedy has sparked conversations about youth violence, the need for greater community involvement, and the importance of creating safe spaces for young people to thrive.
Deandre Howell’s death serves as a stark reminder of the impact of gun violence on families and communities. As investigations progress, law enforcement officials are hopeful that the suspects will be brought to justice, but for now, the focus remains on finding answers and preventing further tragedy in the area.
This story is developing. Stay tuned for updates.