Albany Police Arrest Suspect in July Murder; Large Cache of Drugs and Guns Seized

Albany, GA – On December 1, 2025, Albany Police executed a search warrant in the 1300 block of Mercantile Drive, resulting in the arrest of 20-year-old Kayveon Lyles, a suspect wanted in connection with the July 3, 2025, fatal shooting of Jamarion King near Bay Street and W. Highland Avenue. Two other suspects in the case, Markelvin Hicks and Jaquan McIntyre, had been previously arrested. Lyles had remained at large until tips received by the Albany 911 Communications Center and the Albany Police Department led investigators to his location.

During the search of the residence, officers recovered over 100 grams of marijuana, schedule II narcotics, two digital scales, eight firearms including one machine gun, ammunition, magazines, and firearm accessories. Three of the eight firearms were reported stolen.

In addition to Lyles, twelve other individuals were interviewed and subsequently charged in connection with the search: Japlymen Fowler, Nykevious Cooke, Robert Sapp, Shicambrielle Ware, Garland Grissom, Kiaya Merriweather, Diamond Redding, Jyquay Jordan, Kim Brown, Tyvaun Hubert, Lameka Johnson, and Tyree Cooper. Their charges include possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm during the commission of certain crimes, possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of drug-related objects, possession of schedule II drugs in the case of Kim Brown, possession of stolen firearms, and hindering the apprehension of a criminal.

Lyles faces multiple charges including murder, three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of certain crimes, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of drug-related objects, and three counts of possession of stolen firearms. More arrests are expected as the investigation continues.

Authorities emphasized that the operation was the result of a coordinated effort between the Albany Police Department, the Special Investigations Unit, and the Albany-Dougherty SWAT Team, as well as community members who provided critical tips. Residents with information about the case are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 229-436-TIPS, submit tips through the APD mobile app, or call the Albany Police Department directly at 229-431-2100.