Eight in Custody in Deadly Georgia Block Party Shooting

Authorities announced arrests and charges on November 5 after searches in Crisp, Dooly and Houston counties. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said eight people were in custody in connection with the shooting at an unpermitted homecoming gathering in Vienna. Two other men are wanted, Dooly County Sheriff Craig Peavy said, and are considered armed and dangerous.

Those named in the new arrests include Latravis Keonta Bentley, 19; Ty’Darrious Ty’Jai Dawson, 19; Devontre Jaquon Holton, 23; Demari Jaheem Nixon, 23; Kahdarious Kayvon Ray, 17; and Keontae Towns, 16. The GBI said Ray, arrested earlier in the investigation, now faces murder and other charges. The investigation also names two men arrested on October 14: Kelcey Smith, 36, and Johntavirous Robinson, 40.

Authorities are seeking two men: Brexton Esamuel Gaston, 19, from Cordele, and Vanravious Rashad Williams, 34, from Perry. Charges in the case include murder classified as a felony, aggravated assault and battery, and participation in gang activity. Some defendants also face firearm-related charges.

Gunfire broke out around 1:25 a.m. on October 4, by the gym of Dooly County’s recreation department in the West Palm area, where more than 1,000 people had gathered. Twenty-eight people were shot. Ja’Quavion Aderious Jackson, 21, and Macaleb Malik Jackson, 23, died; 16 others were hurt while fleeing, including in a stampede and traffic crashes.

Authorities said several guns were recovered during the searches and that rifles, handguns and other firearms capable of automatic fire were used. Officials have urged the public not to approach the wanted men and to call 911 if they see them.