AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF)- Less than a week ago, 14-year-old Deandre Howell was shot to death in the parking lot of an auto parts store on Deans Bridge Road in Augusta.
18-year-old “Nametrius McClam” and 16-year-old “Vincent Carter, Jr.” are charged with his murder.
Stories like this one happen all too often and once again the community is looking for ways to help.
It’s the reality of what we’re seeing in Augusta – and one that Richmond County Sheriff Gino Brantley is trying to stop.
The Sheriff created a video that was played for Richmond County middle and high school students during the first week of school.
But his call to action isn’t just one full of words, it’s one that comes with action too.
“The sheriff has implemented numerous programs for our youth, from basketball and athletics to the Citizen’s Police Academy. So we’re reaching out and trying our champion officers are starting in our schools this week. So, you know, we’ll be there. But it is going to take the entire community, I think, from clergy to business leaders to the school system, and particularly parents to,” said Chief Lewis Blanchard.
The Sheriff’s Office is trying to do its part – but still more can be done – and more NEEDS to be done.
For decades, Dr. Reverend Larry Fryer has been begging the community to step up.
One way he’s doing that is with a unity, peace and prayer rally.
“Prayer is good, but there’s another meaning to the word prayer. Prayer also means action. So we need to have an action rally whereby once we do pray, where do we go from here?”
Dr. Fryer’s mission is clear – and he knows with the help of the community – more young lives can be saved.
“You need all aspects of the community, home, church, government, hospital, school, and many other facets of our community. Because we are doing there’s a lot of killing in our city and world.”
The prayer rally starts at 6pm in the parking lot of the ‘Old Winn Dixie’ plaza off Gordon Highway. Everyone is invited.
Photojournalist: Dania Alawir
