Indictments Issued in Athens 2022 Murder of Teen: Two Suspects Charged

Athens-Clarke County Police, with the support of various units and agencies, made significant progress in the investigation of the murder of Brynarius Smith that occurred on April 16, 2022.

The Georgia Attorney General’s Gang Prosecution Unit presented evidence to an Athens-Clarke County Grand Jury, resulting in successful indictments against Jacquavious Smith and Shamon Elder, Jr. Both individuals, aged 22 and from Athens, were charged with Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act, and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony in relation to the incident on Cone Drive in Nellie B Homes.

Jacquavious Smith was apprehended in Athens by ACCPD’s Gang Unit, with the assistance of the Safe Streets Task Force. Shamon Elder, Jr. is currently detained in the Clarke County Jail on unrelated charges.

“I’m proud of everyone involved with this case and appreciate their efforts,” said ACCPD Chief of Police Jerry Saulters. “Violent crimes will not be tolerated, and we will continue working with our community to hold criminals responsible.”

The original incident took place around 2:00 AM on April 16, 2022, when Athens-Clarke County Police responded to a shooting on Cone Drive in Nellie B Homes. The victim, 19-year-old Brynarius Smith from Athens, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.