News Summary
Authorities have arrested three men linked to a fatal drive-by shooting during a significant anti-gang operation in Augusta. The raid took place at Archer Green Apartments, aiming to curb gang violence in the community. Among those arrested is Zayquan McNair, wanted for a shooting that killed a 54-year-old woman. Law enforcement seized drugs, cash, and a firearm during the operation, which reflects ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and prevent gang-related activities.
Augusta – Authorities have arrested three men in a significant anti-gang raid related to a fatal drive-by shooting that occurred in July 2024. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office executed the raid on Thursday at around 1 p.m. at Archer Green Apartments, located at 3112 Damascus Road. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to address gang violence in the area.
Among those arrested were Damien Bell, Zayquan McNair, and Kenneth Tanksley, all residents of Augusta. Zayquan McNair was specifically wanted in connection with a fatal drive-by shooting that took place on July 27, 2024, which targeted a rival gang. In this incident, a 54-year-old homeless woman named Argie Jones was hit by stray gunfire and succumbed to her injuries four days later in the hospital.
During the raid, law enforcement officers seized approximately 415 grams of marijuana, a firearm, and $5,669 in cash. Following the operation, both Bell and McNair were loaded with multiple charges, including grand jury arrest warrants and additional new arrest warrants. Tanksley was also taken to the Charles B. Webster Detention Center for various offenses.
Richmond County Sheriff Eugene Brantley emphasized the importance of removing criminals from the streets to reduce crime rates in the community. The raid involved multiple law enforcement units, including the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Gang Task Force, the SWAT Team, and the U.S. Marshals Service Southeastern Regional Fugitive Task Force.
Authorities have indicated that more arrests might follow as they continue investigations into gang-related activities and drug trafficking in the region. Sheriff Brantley also highlighted the agency’s commitment to preventing youth from being drawn into gangs and criminal behavior through community outreach efforts and partnerships with local schools.
The drive-by shooting that led to McNair’s arrest remains a key focus for investigators, as they work to piece together the circumstances surrounding the event and identify any additional suspects involved. The incident has raised concerns about gang violence and its impact on public safety in Augusta.
Overall, this operation reflects ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to crack down on gang-related crime and work towards creating a safer environment for the residents of Augusta. As investigations continue, authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit of individuals involved in criminal activities, with the aim of restoring peace and security to the community.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Gang Bust Brings 3 Including Suspect 2024 Murder
- Wikipedia: Gang violence
- Augusta Press: Three Arrested in Augusta Gang Raid
- Google Search: Gang raid Augusta
- WJBF: RCSO Deputy Fired and Arrested
- Google Scholar: Gang activity arrests
- WFXG: Gang Investigation Leads to Major Drug and Weapons Seizure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gang
- WSBTV: 5 Alleged Gang Members Indicted
- Google News: Augusta gang shooting
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA 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.
