AUGUSTA, Ga. () – The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed a now deadly shooting at the Augusta Mall on Tuesday.
911 received calls of a shooting at the mall around 1:15 p.m.
The Sheriff’s Office reports that a male victim has been shot, with two individuals currently detained. One was captured on the mall premises while the other was caught trying to reach a nearby gas station.
Richmond County Deputies reportedly cleared stores one-by-one to look for anyone still inside hiding, or possibly having a medical emergency.
Richmond County Sheriff Eugene Brantley explained at a Tuesday afternoon press briefing that the incident started as a fight on the lower floor, escalating when a firearm was drawn and discharged.
Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen has been summoned to a local hospital due to the shooting. Sheriff Brantley verified that the victim, identified as 17-year-old Devon McClain from Augusta, has succumbed to his injuries.
“Today’s tragic event is a stark reminder of how quickly unnecessary violence can become fatal,” remarked Sheriff Brantley. “While we can’t prevent every malicious act, our response will always be swift, professional, and committed to safeguarding our community. Violence is unwelcome in Augusta, and along with our partners and community members, we will keep striving daily to prevent it.”
The GBI, FBI, Richmond County School District, Augusta Fire, and ATF are involved in the investigation.
Rhonda Lovett, who was in Macy’s, recounts hearing three gunshots, “I was buying some perfume in Macy’s when I heard three shots, not in Macy’s but the mall. People started running, so I ran out as well. They need better security or something. It was definitely shocking.”
The mall remains closed until further notice. Authorities advise the public to avoid the area unless necessary.
This is a developing story. Count on NewsChannel 6 for more information as it becomes available.
