News Summary
A shooting in South Augusta left a 14-year-old boy dead and three others injured, sparking a swift manhunt for the suspects involved. The incident occurred near Meadowbrook Drive, and victims are reportedly connected to a group known as the ‘Water Boys.’ Authorities responded quickly with a significant law enforcement presence, including drone surveillance, as the investigation unfolds. Community leaders are calling for vigilance and cooperation to ensure safety as the investigation continues.
Augusta, Georgia – A tragic shooting incident on Sunday evening claimed the life of a 14-year-old boy, identified as Deandre Howell, in South Augusta. The shooting, which left three other teenagers injured, occurred near Meadowbrook Drive and Deans Bridge Road.
Howell was pronounced dead on the scene at the parking lot of Advanced Auto Parts shortly after the incident. One of the injured teenagers is currently in critical condition, while the other two have sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Their identities have not been disclosed.
The four victims are believed to be associated with a group commonly referred to as the “Water Boys,” who are known to sell water to vehicles in the area. However, authorities have not yet confirmed this association. The shootings took place in two separate locations; two victims were shot in the Advanced Auto Parts parking lot, and the other two were targeted at a nearby Texaco gas station.
The chaotic scene unfolded when a vehicle involved in the incident was struck by gunfire and subsequently veered across the street toward an IGA grocery store. A significant number of law enforcement officers responded to emergency calls reporting the shooting at approximately 5:15 p.m. on Sunday.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has launched a manhunt for the suspects involved in the shooting. Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard confirmed that law enforcement is actively pursuing leads, including a suspect who fled into a nearby backyard. Although some individuals suspected of involvement have already been taken into custody, the investigation remains ongoing.
In light of the serious nature of the incident, law enforcement has established a strong presence in the area, with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office assisting in the response. Additionally, drone surveillance has been implemented to aid in the search efforts.
To facilitate the investigation, the Meadowbrook area has been cordoned off to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Officers are utilizing an array of resources, including the Crime Suppression Team, K9 units, and S.W.A.T. Team, to conduct a thorough search of the neighborhood to gather evidence and secure the area.
To provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding Howell’s death, an autopsy has been scheduled. Investigators are expected to release further information as it becomes available, hoping to shed light on the motives behind the violence and the identities of those involved.
This incident has shocked the local community, raising concerns about youth safety and gun violence in the area. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities as the investigation unfolds.
As the search for suspects continues, community leaders and residents are hopeful for a swift resolution to the case and a restoration of safety in the neighborhood.
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Additional Resources
- The Augusta Press
- WRDW News
- WJBF News
- Augusta Chronicle
- ABC 7 Chicago
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
- Google Search: Augusta shooting
- Google Scholar: Gun violence in youth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence
- Google News: Latest Augusta shooting
