News Summary
A shooting in Augusta has left a 14-year-old boy dead and three other teenagers injured. The incident occurred in the parking lot of Advance Auto Parts, prompting an active investigation by Richmond County deputies. The deceased has been identified as Deandre Howell. Two suspects, including an 18-year-old and a 16-year-old, are facing charges, with community concerns rising regarding youth violence connected to a local group known as ‘the water boys’. Support resources have been offered by the Richmond County School District.
Augusta, Georgia – A tragic shooting incident in Augusta has resulted in the death of a 14-year-old boy and injuries to three other teenagers. The shooting occurred in the parking lot of Advance Auto Parts on Deans Bridge Road at Meadowbrook Drive around 5:30 PM on a Wednesday. Richmond County deputies are actively investigating the incident, which involved four teenagers who were shot, with some of the suspects believed to also be teenagers, having fled the scene on foot.
According to the Richmond County Coroner, Mark Bowen, the deceased victim has been identified as Deandre Howell, who was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:05 PM after being shot at least once. The other three teenagers involved in the shooting were identified as Zyion Carter, age 16; Josiah Overton, age 12; and Vincent Hikeem Carter Jr., age 16. While Zyion Carter and Josiah Overton sustained injuries that are not life-threatening, Vincent Hikeem Carter Jr. is recovering in the hospital and is facing a murder charge in relation to the incident.
Additionally, authorities have taken 18-year-old Nametrius McClam into custody, also charged with murder. The investigation is ongoing, with Richmond County K9 teams and a S.W.A.T. team deployed to search for remaining suspects in the Meadowbrook neighborhood. Assistance was provided by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Drone Team to facilitate the search for suspects.
The shooting incident occurred at multiple locations, including the parking lot of Advance Auto Parts and a nearby Texaco gas station. A vehicle involved in the shooting was struck by gunfire before crossing the street towards an IGA grocery store. At present, one of the victims remains in critical condition, while the other two are stable.
Speculation has arisen on social media indicating that the shooting may relate to a group popularly known as “the water boys,” who are known for selling water on street corners. Richmond County Sheriff Gino Brantley confirmed that some individuals linked to the shooting were associated with this group. The Sheriff has emphasized the importance of community involvement to guide youth and prevent further violence.
In response to the incident, the Richmond County School District has confirmed that support resources are available for students and families at several affected schools. The district is taking measures to ensure the well-being of students in light of the recent violence.
A public safety alert was previously issued to avoid the Harrisburg area due to the threats of ongoing violence. However, this alert has since been lifted as the situation develops.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has encountered issues related to youth selling water in the community in a proactive way, recognizing the complexities involved in law enforcement interactions with minors.
As the investigation proceeds, authorities are committed to thoroughly pursuing any outstanding suspects and ensuring the safety and security of the community in Augusta.
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Additional Resources
- The Augusta Press: Augusta Shootings Kill One, Injure Three Teens
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- WJBF: Shooting Reported Near Meadowbrook Drive
- Google Search: Augusta shooting incidents
- WRDW: Teen Charged with Bringing Gun to North Augusta High School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- WFXG: 5 Teens Detained After Shooting in Harrisburg Area
- Google News: Shooting Augusta

Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.