Two Arrested in Connection with Augusta Officer-Involved Shooting on Broad Street

At the request of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, agents from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) are currently investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place in Augusta. The incident occurred during the early hours of Saturday, June 8, 2024, outside the Sole’ restaurant on Broad Street.

According to preliminary reports, three off-duty Richmond County deputies were at the location when they heard multiple gunshots around 1:15 a.m. Responding to the gunfire, the deputies encountered an individual outside the restaurant wielding an assault pistol. In response, two deputies discharged their firearms, striking the suspect at least once. Two bystanders were also injured by gunfire during the incident.

Further investigation revealed that the initial gunfire was part of a broader exchange involving the suspect and several unidentified individuals spanning two to three blocks along Broad Street. The motive behind the altercation remains under investigation.

Multiple firearms and other evidence were recovered from the scene, which also saw damage to several vehicles and nearby businesses due to the exchange of gunfire.

The suspect involved in the shooting, identified as 19-year-old Amazing Lee Blessed Brigham from Hephzibah, GA, has been taken into custody. Brigham faces charges including two counts of aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.

Additionally, a second individual, Seven Whitfield, age 23, also from Hephzibah, GA, has been arrested in connection with the incident. Whitfield, who sustained injuries from gunfire during the altercation, faces charges of aggravated assault and possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony.

Both Brigham and Whitfield were treated for their injuries at a local hospital following the incident.

The GBI continues its independent investigation into the matter. Once completed, the findings will be forwarded to the Augusta District Attorney’s Office for review.