News Summary
A judge in Augusta has denied bond for Carl B. Gant III, who faces multiple charges, including the murder of three-year-old Bryson Murray. The incident occurred during a shooting on New Savannah Road, which injured Bryson’s mother and others in the home. Gant, labeled a flight risk, has a troubling criminal history and currently denies involvement. The community is in shock over the tragedy, prompting discussions on gun violence and safety.
Augusta, Georgia – A judge has denied bond for Carl B. Gant III, 32, charged with multiple criminal counts, including the murder of three-year-old Bryson Murray. The decision was made during a court hearing on Friday as Gant faces serious allegations stemming from a tragic shooting incident that occurred on August 20 in the 1100 block of New Savannah Road.
Gant is not only charged with murder but also with three counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The legal actions come after Bryson was fatally shot and pronounced dead at 2:20 a.m. on the day of the incident, according to Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen.
The violent episode reportedly began when Bryson’s mother, who was at a friend’s home for a playdate with her son, became concerned after Gant arrived upset from an argument with his girlfriend, a friend of the mother. Attempting to safely exit the situation, Bryson’s mother left the living area, carrying Bryson in her right arm, when she suddenly heard gunfire.
Investigators revealed that Gant fired multiple rounds into the house, striking Bryson in the abdomen and injuring his mother, who sustained two gunshot wounds to the chest and another to her right arm. Two other individuals present in the home, identified as a 39-year-old woman and a 40-year-old man, were unharmed during the incident.
Authorities indicated that prior to the shooting, Gant’s girlfriend removed her son and the couple’s car to the rear of the residence shortly before he exited and began firing. Following the incident, Gant fled to his mother’s apartment, where he concealed the firearm, which was later discovered wrapped in a T-shirt. He subsequently traveled to Atlanta before returning to Augusta the next day, where he was found by police.
During police questioning, Gant reportedly denied involvement in the shooting, creating additional complexities in the case. His criminal history includes numerous charges dating back to 2010, primarily related to drug offenses, and he currently has a pending charge for making a terrorist threat.
Judge Amanda Heath expressed grave concern during the bond hearing, labeling Gant a flight risk, a potential danger to the community, and a threat to witnesses in the case. This decision emphasizes the seriousness with which the court is treating the charges against him.
The shooting has shocked the local community, with neighbors recalling the sound of multiple gunshots. Many members of the neighborhood expressed their disbelief and anxiety about the incident, highlighting that it took place in what they considered a safe environment. Law enforcement officials are currently seeking additional information from a person of interest, Willie Lewis, 40, who may possess further details regarding the incident.
As the investigation continues, the community remains restless, grappling with the aftermath of such a tragic event. The loss of young Bryson Murray has raised questions about gun violence and safety within neighborhoods, prompting calls for further dialogue and action to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Judge Denies Bond for Suspect in 3-Year-Old’s Death
- WFXG: 3-Year-Old Identified in Fatal Augusta Shooting
- WJBF: 3-Year-Old Fatally Shot; Augusta Man Charged
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Augusta Chronicle: Police Probe Child’s Shooting Death
- Google News: Augusta Shooting 3-Year-Old

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.