Shooting Incident in Augusta Leaves One Man Injured

Authorities conduct an investigation following a shooting incident in Augusta.

News Summary

A shooting occurred on Ellis Street in Augusta that left 20-year-old Demari Gaines injured. Authorities responded after multiple gunshots were heard in the area. Numerous firearms and cartridge casings were recovered, and Gaines faces several charges while the investigation continues. Tragically, an additional shooting claimed the life of 18-year-old Rakel Howard in Aiken County, raising concerns about escalating gun violence in the region.

Augusta – A 20-year-old man has been charged following an early morning shooting on Ellis Street that left him injured. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the incident, which unfolded on Sunday just before 2 a.m.

Demari Gaines was shot at least once in the 900 block of Ellis Street. Authorities became aware of the situation when they were patrolling Broad Street and heard the sound of multiple gunshots. Shortly after, they received a call about a shooting on Sarah Street, leading deputies to the scene where they found Gaines suffering from gunshot wounds.

Deputies provided immediate assistance until Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrived, and Gaines was transported to WellStar Medical Center. As of the latest reports, he is currently in stable condition.

As the investigation progressed, several individuals who attempted to flee the area were detained by deputies. At the site of the shooting, law enforcement recovered multiple firearms. Numerous cartridge casings were also found, with several vehicles reported to have been struck by gunfire during the incident.

Following interviews and the collection of evidence, Demari Gaines faces several charges, including:

Two counts of aggravated assault
One count of criminal damage to property in the first degree
One count of possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime

The investigation into the shooting at Ellis Street continues, with law enforcement seeking answers and trying to determine the circumstances surrounding the altercation.

In a tragic coincidence that highlights the spate of violence in the area, the body of 18-year-old Rakel Howard was discovered during the investigation. Howard, who had also been shot, was the victim of a separate shooting that took place earlier on the same morning in Aiken County. This incident occurred on Oak Street in Blackville, leading to widespread concern over the rising gun violence affecting the region.

This recent series of events underscores an alarming trend of escalating violence, and local authorities are urging community members to come forward with any information that may assist in the investigation. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is committed to ensuring public safety and addressing the issue of gun violence within the community.

As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay updated on local crime reports and to participate in efforts aimed at preventing violence in the Augusta area.