GBI Investigating Deadly Drive-By Shooting In Thomson That Killed Teen, Injured Another

Thomson, GA – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating a deadly drive-by shooting that claimed the life of a 17-year-old and injured another teenager in Thomson.

At the request of the Thomson Police Department, GBI agents are assisting with the investigation into the shooting, which occurred Friday night, January 17, 2026.

According to preliminary information, the McDuffie County Dispatch Center received a 911 call around 9:55 p.m. reporting a shooting on Walnut Street. Responding officers located two victims, later identified as Raheem Hampton, 17, and Daquerion Howard, 18, both of Thomson.

Both victims were transported to an Augusta-area hospital for treatment. Hampton was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. Howard was treated for his injuries and has since been released.

Hampton’s body will be taken to the GBI Crime Lab in Decatur, where an autopsy will be performed. The investigation remains active, and no additional details have been released at this time.

This investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Thomson Police Department at 706-595-2166 or the GBI Investigative Office in Thomson at 706-595-2575. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS(8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.