News Summary
In Hephzibah, Georgia, 23-year-old Layla Bennett faces upgraded murder charges following a shooting at a Waffle House that resulted in one death. The incident occurred late at night, claiming the life of Antoine Stokes. Another suspect, Jalen Thomas, was recently apprehended and also faces serious charges. The community remains on alert as investigations continue into this tragic event.
Hephzibah, Georgia – Charges against Layla Bennett, 23, have been significantly upgraded to include murder following a shooting incident at a Waffle House that left one person dead. Bennett was initially arrested on August 21 and charged with aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. The escalation of charges comes as investigations surrounding the incident continue.
The shooting occurred late at night on August 20 at a Waffle House located on Talbot Drive in Hephzibah, Richmond County. Authorities reported that Antoine Stokes, 23, of Martinez, was shot and later succumbed to his injuries. Stokes was pronounced dead on August 21 at 3:59 PM after being taken to Wellstar MCG Health. An autopsy is scheduled, with Coroner Mark Bowen overseeing the proceedings.
In addition to Bennett, another suspect connected to the shooting has been apprehended. Jalen Thomas, 26, was arrested on September 2, nearly two weeks after the incident. He faces multiple charges including murder, aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has warned that Thomas should be considered armed and dangerous.
Witnesses indicated that the chaotic events transpired just before 11:30 PM on August 20. Stokes, who was shot at least once, was found inside a Ford Escape. As investigators dig deeper into the case, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The Waffle House shooting incident has raised alarm within the community, particularly as it follows another shooting that had occurred shortly before. Residents are reminding themselves and each other of the need for vigilance in the wake of gun violence that can disrupt community safety.
As the case progresses, both Bennett and Thomas face serious legal consequences if convicted. The upgraded charges against Bennett reflect the severity with which law enforcement is treating this tragic event. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is committed to bringing justice to the victims and their families while reducing future incidents of violence in the area.
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Additional Resources
- WJBF News
- Wikipedia: Waffle House
- WFXG News
- Google Search: Waffle House shooting Hephzibah
- WRDW News
- Google Scholar: gun violence in Georgia
- Augusta Press
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
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.
