Overview

• Deputies responded around 5:15 p.m. Sunday to the Advanced Auto Parts parking lot at Deans Bridge Road and Meadowbrook Drive after reports of gunfire.
• Four juvenile victims were found, including 14-year-old Deandre Howell who was pronounced dead on scene and three others taken to hospitals with one in critical condition and two in stable condition.
• The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office deployed SWAT, Crime Suppression, K9 and Columbia County drone teams for an extensive search of the Meadowbrook neighborhood.
• Officials say no suspects or motive have been identified and the case remains under active investigation.
• Local residents have urged renewed efforts to curb youth gun violence and bolster public safety following the incident.