Crime
Heavy Police Presence Reported at Augusta Mall Following Shooting Threat
Augusta, GA – A heavy police response was reported at Augusta Mall on Saturday after receiving reports of a potential shooting threat. The incident, which caused widespread panic among shoppers, led to stores locking down and the rapid deployment of law enforcement to the scene.
Witnesses reported that the situation began with an altercation among individuals inside the mall. During the confrontation, one person allegedly made a verbal threat to “shoot it up,” prompting fear and chaos.
Shoppers and employees fled in panic, with many running for safety while others sought refuge in locked stores. According to witnesses, the atmosphere quickly became chaotic, with people dispersing throughout the mall.
Law enforcement officers arrived swiftly at the scene, securing the premises and working to restore order. Police confirmed that no shots were fired, and the situation appears to be under control. Officers continue to investigate the incident to determine the validity of the threat and ensure public safety.
During the commotion, a woman reportedly lost her child amidst the crowd and was seen screaming and panicking as she searched for her child. Witnesses described the scene as emotional and distressing, though the child was reportedly located shortly after the initial chaos.
As of now, there are no reported injuries, and authorities have not confirmed any active threats. Augusta Mall has resumed normal operations, although a significant police presence remains as part of the ongoing investigation.
Law enforcement is urging anyone with information regarding the altercation or the threat to come forward to assist with their investigation. Shoppers are advised to stay vigilant and follow any updates or safety advisories from local authorities.
More details will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
MT. JULIET, Tenn. — Authorities have identified two victims killed during an active shooter incident at Cedar Creek Marina in Mt. Juliet late Friday night.
The suspect, identified as Gary Haley, a convicted felon with an extensive criminal history, is deceased following an officer-involved shooting, officials confirmed.
Mount Juliet Police officers were dispatched at approximately 9:30 p.m. Friday to the Cedar Creek Marina, located in the 9000 block of Saundersville Road, after receiving reports of a man threatening another individual on the docks.
Due to the active shooter report, a shelter-in-place order was issued for the surrounding area as a precaution.
Upon arrival, officers located an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound.
The victim was later identified as Robby Brogdon, who was transported to a local hospital for emergency medical treatment.
Despite life-saving efforts, Brogdon later succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators determined that the suspected shooter had retreated to a boat within the marina and had barricaded himself inside.
The standoff continued for several hours as officers secured the scene and attempted to resolve the situation safely.
At approximately 1:00 a.m. Saturday, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) reported that the suspect engaged responding officers and fired shots at them under circumstances that remain under investigation. Officers returned fire.
The suspect, Gary Haley, was later found deceased aboard the vessel.
During the course of the response, officers also discovered a second adult male victim, Nathan Jones, who had been shot by the suspect.
Jones was pronounced dead at the scene.
No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has assumed responsibility for the investigation, which includes a homicide, an attempted homicide, and an officer-involved shooting.
TBI agents are actively conducting interviews, collecting evidence, and working to establish a comprehensive timeline of events.
Upon completion of the investigation, findings will be submitted to 15th Judicial District Attorney General Jason Lawson for review.
Authorities stated that additional information will be released as it becomes available.