The Richmond County Coroner’s Office has identified 14-year-old Deandre Howell as the victim in a tragic shooting that occurred Sunday afternoon, August 3, 2025, near the intersection of Meadowbrook Drive and Deans Bridge Road.
Authorities say Deandre was shot at least once in the parking lot of Advance Auto Parts on Deans Bridge Road. He was pronounced dead at 6:05 p.m., leaving the community stunned and grieving the loss of a young life just as the school year was set to begin.
In total, four individuals were shot—two at Advance Auto Parts and two more at a nearby Texaco station. Additionally, a vehicle was struck by gunfire and later pulled over in a separate parking lot. Multiple suspects have been arrested, though the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to search for others believed to be connected to the incident.
Law enforcement responded swiftly, with support from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Richmond County Coroner’s Office. A drone was deployed over the area to assist in the active investigation. Mayor Garnett Johnson also arrived on the scene to support the efforts and offer condolences.
The scene began to clear around 7:30 p.m., but the emotional toll of this tragedy will last far longer. Deandre Howell’s death marks another heartbreaking chapter in the ongoing struggle against youth violence.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families,” Mayor Johnson said. “Please continue to pray for them and for our city. This is such a somber way to begin a new school year.”
May Deandre Howell rest in peace, and may his memory serve as a call to protect and uplift the youth in our communities.
