In a remarkable turn of events, the relentless efforts of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office have resulted in the apprehension of three murder suspects involved in two separate homicides in Augusta. These significant arrests bring a sense of relief and closure to the community, as law enforcement officials work diligently to uphold the principles of justice and ensure public safety.
The first incident, which took place at the Get-N-Go convenience store on Windsor Spring Road, resulted in the tragic death of a 15-year-old victim. The second incident involved the shooting death of a 24-year-old individual while inside a vehicle on St. Andrews Drive and Perimeter Drive. The heinous nature of these crimes underscored the urgency and importance of capturing the perpetrators.
On the early morning of June 18, around 1:02 a.m., a breakthrough occurred when deputies operating the Flock camera system identified a stolen 2019 Jaguar F-Pace. The vehicle had been reported stolen through the Riverdale Police Department. Deputies, stationed at the corner of 13th Street and Broad Street, spotted the vehicle heading north on 13th Street before turning onto Jones Street.
Swift action was taken as deputies pursued the vehicle, managing to catch up with it on Jones Street. They attempted to initiate a felony stop, but the driver maneuvered into a parking lot and quickly exited, continuing eastbound on Jones Street. Undeterred, the suspects turned onto 10th Street, accelerating at speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour in a 35-mile-per-hour zone.
In a courageous attempt to halt the suspects’ escape, deputies executed a PIT maneuver at the intersection of Telfair Street and 13th Street. The vehicle careened into a tree in a nearby parking lot, prompting the suspects to flee the scene. However, the relentless efforts of law enforcement paid off as they swiftly located and apprehended Vinston Moultrie, the driver, who was found near a creek underpass. Additionally, another passenger, Ike Lang, was discovered hiding in the bushes.
During the subsequent search, deputies made a chilling discovery—an illegally possessed firearm identified as a Glock 19x, equipped with an automatic switch and loaded with a 31-round magazine containing a round in the chamber and a threaded barrel. Lang, with an extensive list of charges including murder, aggravated assault, and possession of an illegal weapon, was officially booked on June 19. Moultrie, facing charges of murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during a crime, was also booked on the same day.
Furthermore, the investigation led to the arrest of Kenneth Maurice Williams on June 7, in connection with the April murder. Williams, not involved in the high-speed pursuit, faces charges of murder, aggravated assault, and other related offenses. While his arrest was separate from the intense chase, it further demonstrates the dedication of law enforcement officials in resolving multiple cases and holding individuals accountable for their actions.
These recent arrests serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office and the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in Augusta. The community can find solace in the knowledge that justice is being served and that the safety of its residents remains paramount.
As the legal process unfolds, officials will continue their thorough investigations, meticulously examining evidence and ensuring that due process is upheld. The arrests of these murder suspects mark a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice, providing a renewed sense of security and fostering a spirit of resilience within the community.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office remains resolute in its mission to protect and serve, working tirelessly to safeguard the well-being of Augusta’s residents. These recent apprehensions underscore the effectiveness of proactive policing strategies and the tireless dedication of law enforcement officials in their ongoing pursuit of a safer community.
