Central Georgia Man Charged With Murder in Death of 15-Year-Old Girl

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ga. — A 22-year-old Tennille man has been arrested and charged with murder following the fatal shooting of a 15-year-old girl Friday night in Washington County.

According to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 9:45 p.m. on June 19, 2026, after Washington County 911 received a report that a female had been shot at a residence on Hagan Circle outside of Tennille.

When deputies arrived, they found 15-year-old LuVenya Knight of Irwinton lying inside the residence unconscious and not breathing.

Deputies and emergency medical personnel immediately began life-saving efforts, but Knight was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators identified 22-year-old Kermarion Markel Washington of Tennille as the suspect.

Washington was taken into custody by deputies shortly after the incident and transported to the Washington County Jail, where he remains held pending a bond hearing in Washington County Superior Court.

Authorities have charged Washington with Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, Felony Murder, Malice Murder, Child Molestation, and Statutory Rape.

Investigators have not released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the relationship between Washington and the victim.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office said additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is assisting the Washington County Sheriff’s Office with the case.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.