Three Teens Charged With Murder Hours After Fatal Augusta Shooting; Fourth Teen Arrested on Weapons Charge
AUGUSTA, Ga. — Three teenagers have been arrested and charged with murder following a fatal shooting that left one 18-year-old dead and another wounded early Saturday morning in Augusta.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office announced that investigators quickly identified and arrested three suspects in connection with the homicide of 18-year-old Eric Markquis Bartley Miller, who was killed during a shooting in the 200 block of Warren Road.
Deputies responded to the area at approximately 12:50 a.m. on June 20, 2026, after receiving reports of shots fired involving multiple victims.
When deputies arrived, they found Miller suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite emergency response efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:38 a.m. by Deputy Coroner John Rutland.
A second victim, 18-year-old Joseph Lamar Thomas of Augusta, was also found suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was transported to Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center for treatment.
Following an intensive investigation by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Division, with assistance from the Violent Crimes Division and Rotation Investigators, authorities arrested three suspects later Saturday.
Charged with Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of Machine Guns are:
- Dmihjay Collins, 18, of Augusta
- Tayshaun Thomas, 17, of Augusta
- Joseph Thomas, 17, of Augusta
All three suspects were booked into the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.
During the course of the investigation, investigators also encountered 17-year-old Reante Byrd of Hephzibah. Authorities said Byrd was found in possession of a firearm and was arrested on a charge of Possession of a Pistol or Revolver by a Person Under the Age of 18.
Investigators determined Byrd was present at the residence when the shooting occurred but found no evidence linking him to the homicide. He was also booked into the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.
Sheriff’s officials credited the rapid response of patrol deputies and investigators for helping identify and apprehend those responsible within hours of the shooting.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office praised members of the Homicide Division, Violent Crimes Division, Rotation Investigators, Crime Scene personnel, and responding deputies for their work on the case.
The investigation remains active and ongoing.
