Man Convicted in 2020 Shooting at Macon Apartment Complex Receives 20-Year Sentence

MACON, Ga. — A Bibb County jury convicted a 37-year-old man of aggravated assault in connection with a fatal shooting at an apartment complex, resulting in a 20-year sentence, officials said.

Earlondez Bond was found guilty April 27 following a trial stemming from a 2020 shooting at Hunter’s Run Apartments. He was sentenced to 20 years, with the first 10 years to be served and the remainder on probation.

According to investigators, deputies responded to the complex on Oct. 12, 2020, after reports of gunfire. Authorities determined Bond went to the location over a dispute involving a vehicle. During the confrontation, Bond pointed a firearm at multiple individuals, including Joshua Benard Horne.

Investigators said Bond admitted he chased Horne and dropped one of his weapons during the incident. His wife told authorities she attempted to get him to leave before the situation escalated.

Evidence presented in court showed both firearms carried by Bond were discharged. Officials said a projectile recovered during Horne’s autopsy matched Bond’s Taurus pistol.

Prosecutors said Bond claimed self-defense, stating the victim retrieved the dropped weapon and fired at him. The case proceeded to trial after Bond declined a plea offer that would have resulted in a lesser sentence.

At sentencing, the court cited Bond’s decision to escalate the situation and declined to treat him as a first offender.

District Attorney Anita Howard said the verdict reflects accountability for violent actions.

“This verdict sends a clear message that you cannot arm yourself, walk into someone else’s neighborhood looking for a confrontation, and take a life without being held accountable,” Howard said.