News Summary
Mikeem and Garnett Gaines have been arrested in connection with the murder of James Brinson, which took place during a heated argument in June 2023. The investigation revealed that Mikeem allegedly fired the fatal shot after being called outside by his mother. The case highlights ongoing issues of violence in the Central Savannah River Area.
Augusta, Georgia
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of a mother and son in connection with a murder case dating back to June 2023. Mikeem Gaines, 22, and his mother, Garnett Gaines, 45, both residents of Lumpkin Road, were apprehended on August 26, 2025, around 5:15 p.m. They are each facing one count of murder relating to the death of 42-year-old James Brinson.
The incident leading to this murder charge unfolded on June 17, 2023, at approximately 8:06 a.m. in the 2800 block of Lumpkin Road. Law enforcement officials found Brinson shot at least once. He was subsequently transported to Wellstar MCG, where he was pronounced dead at 8:43 a.m.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that a heated argument between Garnett Gaines and James Brinson served as the catalyst for the shooting. Reports indicate that Mikeem Gaines became involved when his mother called him outside amid the dispute. It is alleged that Mikeem fired the fatal shot before fleeing the scene, while Garnett reportedly delayed in contacting emergency services.
According to police reports, Garnett stated that she discovered Brinson outside, unable to transport him to a hospital before placing a 911 call. This case had remained unresolved until recently when a friend of Mikeem stepped forward, reporting threats made by him, which provided crucial information to investigators.
Both Mikeem and Garnett Gaines have been committed to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center on murder charges. Mikeem Gaines has a criminal history, including a felony burglary charge in 2022, while his mother has a minor record consisting of misdemeanors such as marijuana possession and disorderly conduct.
James Brinson is remembered fondly in the Augusta community. He was a graduate of Josey High School and known as a talented musician as well as a successful landscaper, leaving a positive impact on those who knew him.
Broader Context of Violence in the Region
The arrests come amid a troubling increase in violence within the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), which has seen over 100 homicides this year, predominantly affecting young men. Many of these incidents have been linked to gang-related activities, raising concerns among community leaders about safety and the ongoing issues facing the youth in the region.
As law enforcement continues to address these ongoing problems, the community remains hopeful for a decline in violence and a focus on preventative measures to protect its residents.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Mother and Son Arrested in 2023 Lumpkin Road Murder
- WJBF: Two Arrested in a 2023 Homicide in Augusta
- WFXG: Mother and Son Arrested in 2023 Lumpkin Road Murder Case
- Eastern Progress: Update: 3-Year-Old Identified in Fatal Augusta Shooting
- Wikipedia: Augusta, Georgia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Augusta, Georgia
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.
