The Richmond County community is reeling after a fatal shooting on Wednesday evening claimed the life of 26-year-old Jaquavious Watkins. The incident occurred in the 2500 block of Lumpkin Road, prompting an immediate and ongoing homicide investigation by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities were dispatched to the scene just after the shooting was reported. When deputies arrived, they discovered a male victim suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel transported the victim to Wellstar MCH Health, where, despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead. Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen later confirmed the victim’s identity as Jaquavious Watkins, a local resident of Lumpkin Road.
News of Watkins’ death has deeply shaken those who knew him. Friends and neighbors described him as a young man with a quiet demeanor, someone who stayed to himself but was respectful and polite. The senseless nature of the shooting has left many in disbelief, with community members demanding answers and justice.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office quickly classified the incident as a homicide and called in its Criminal Investigation Division (CID) to lead the inquiry. Investigators remained on the scene for several hours Wednesday night, canvassing the area, collecting evidence, and speaking with potential witnesses. At this time, officials have not released any suspect information, and no arrests have been made. The motive behind the shooting also remains unclear.
“We are treating this as an active homicide investigation,” a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office said. “Our investigators are working diligently to uncover all the facts surrounding this tragic incident. We encourage anyone with information to come forward.”
Watkins’ death adds to a growing concern about gun violence in the region, where several recent shootings have shaken residents’ sense of safety. Local leaders and residents alike have voiced increasing concern about crime and the urgent need for intervention—particularly when it comes to youth and young adults who are disproportionately impacted by gun violence.
As investigators continue to pursue leads, members of the Lumpkin Road community have begun to gather in solidarity, some placing candles and flowers near the site of the shooting to honor Watkins’ memory. A friend who grew up with Watkins described him as “a good soul” who didn’t deserve to have his life ended so violently.
“He had his ups and downs like anyone else,” the friend said, “but Jaquavious was trying to do right. He didn’t deserve this. None of us saw this coming.”
The Sheriff’s Office has called on the public for help in solving the case, asking that anyone who was in the area around the time of the shooting or who may have security footage contact their tip line. Calls can remain anonymous, and any information, no matter how small, could prove crucial in identifying those responsible.
Meanwhile, Watkins’ family is left grieving a devastating loss. In a brief statement, a family member expressed their heartbreak and requested privacy during this incredibly difficult time. Plans for a memorial service are expected to be announced soon, as loved ones come to terms with a life cut far too short.
As the community mourns and investigators press forward, the hope remains that justice will be served and that Jaquavious Watkins’ death will not be in vain. His memory now lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, even as the search for answers continues.
