Four Arrested After Domestic Dispute Between Juvenile and Stepfather Escalates Into Gunfire in Valdosta
VALDOSTA, Ga. — A domestic dispute late Friday night escalated into gunfire after a teenager contacted friends to intervene, according to the Valdosta Police Department.
At approximately 11:15 p.m. on February 27, 2026, patrol officers responded to a residence in the 700 block of Lausanne Drive in reference to a domestic disturbance involving gunshots.
Officers learned that a verbal dispute between a 16-year-old juvenile and his stepfather turned physical. During the altercation, the teen allegedly contacted friends, who arrived at the home and became involved.
As the stepfather attempted to leave the residence in a vehicle, shots were fired at the car, striking it multiple times and causing damage. Officers located evidence in front of the residence indicating firearms had been discharged toward the vehicle.
Police were advised that the stepson and three friends had left the area on foot. Officers located four individuals nearby: the 16-year-old stepson, another 16-year-old juvenile, Andrew Coates, 17, and Dimitirus Brabson, 18.
One of the juveniles attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended. Officers recovered a bookbag he dropped while running, which contained two firearms and narcotics.
Charges include:
- Juvenile (name withheld): Aggravated assault (felony), possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime (felony), two counts of possession of a handgun under 18 (misdemeanor), and obstruction of an officer (misdemeanor).
- 16-year-old stepson: Aggravated assault (felony), possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime (felony), and battery (misdemeanor).
- Dimitirus Brabson, 18: Aggravated assault (felony), possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony (felony), and battery (misdemeanor).
- Andrew Coates, 17: Aggravated assault (felony), possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony (felony), and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute (felony).
The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice authorized the detention of the two juveniles at a Regional Youth Detention Center. All four were transported to the Lowndes County Jail.
