Two Suspects Arrested in Connection with Murder of 17-year-old in Macon

The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, along with various units including the Gang Unit and SWAT, collaborated with the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force to arrest two suspects linked to a death investigation on Tom Hill Sr. Boulevard (Planet Fitness).

On May 3, 2024, Daeshawn Markell Hardwick, 21, and Jaylon Emanuel Stephens, 20, were apprehended after the successful execution of search and arrest warrants at a residence on Swan Drive around 5:00 a.m. Both suspects, residents of Macon, were wanted in connection with the murder of 17-year-old Sha’quvas Dean on April 27, 2024.

Hardwick faces a charge of Murder, while Stephens, also wanted for multiple firearm-related offenses and gang activity, now faces a charge of Murder as well. Neither of the suspects has been granted bond.

The investigation remains ongoing, with the possibility of additional charges. Individuals with pertinent information are encouraged to reach out to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office at 478-751-7500 or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.