Georgia – Ten people have been charged in Lowndes County after a brutal firefight in Remerton, Georgia, that left two men dead and two sheriff’s deputies in danger. Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr and Southern Judicial Circuit District Attorney Bradfield M. Shealy announced the charges against the defendants. They are charged with multiple felonies, including felony murder and crimes related to gangs.
The charges come from a night of chaos on November 1, 2024, when shooting broke out outside a row of pubs on Baytree Place. The incident was fatal for 20-year-old Jastain Darrisaw and 31-year-old Lajoespet Wells. Authorities believe the violence was part of an ongoing battle between rival gangs. The suspects are said to have targeted their enemies while also putting innocent bystanders and police personnel in danger.
All ten defendants are thought to be part of the 923/BangKrew gang, which started in Valdosta. The indictment says that the defendants planned to confront a rival gang in the lively entertainment district on October 31, 2024. That plan allegedly escalated into a deadly shootout in the early hours of November 1. During the exchange, shots were fired at two deputies who were providing protection. One officer was struck in his protective vest but was later released from the hospital.
“When shots were fired in a crowded area, these two Deputies risked their lives to keep people safe,” said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr. “Now we’re fighting to ensure those responsible are held accountable because this cycle of violence cannot continue. I’ve said before – gang activity has no place in this state, and violent offenders will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
The investigation was led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Remerton Police Department, with assistance from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office and the Attorney General’s Gang Prosecution Unit. Remerton Police Chief Mike Terrell credited this teamwork with ensuring the swift indictments and reassured residents that law enforcement remains determined to keep the city safe.
The charges for each defendant include multiple counts of felony murder, aggravated assault on law enforcement officers, violations of Georgia’s Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act, and weapons offenses. Notably, defendants Jaquavious Neal, Talonnie Rogers, and Umar Bryant each face four counts of felony murder due to their alleged leadership roles and heightened involvement in the violence.
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As of now, nine of the ten defendants are in custody. Law enforcement continues to look for Jailen Bryant, 17, who remains at large. Officials urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact the Georgia Bureau of Investigation or submit tips anonymously.
Authorities have made clear that they will pursue maximum accountability for the crimes committed, vowing to continue their efforts against gang violence to protect the safety and peace of Georgia communities.
More details can be found on the Georgia Attorney General Office website.
