Crime
18-year-old Javen Turner killed in Sparta shooting, 5 charged with murder
Authorities have charged four adults and a juvenile in connection with the fatal shooting of an 18-year-old man in Sparta, Georgia, on Friday afternoon.
The victim, identified as Javen Lamont Turner of Sparta, was critically injured in the shooting at the intersection of Broad Street and Miles Street. Turner succumbed to his injuries on Saturday.
According to a police news release, the following individuals have been charged with felony murder:
- Nehemiah Henderson, 22, of Sparta
- Armarion Hunt, 20, of Sparta (still at large)
- Darrion Deandre Green, 18, of Thompson
- Mikez Yaraus Edwards, 18, of Sparta
Additionally, a juvenile suspect is being held at the Regional Youth Detention Center.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) revealed that around 3 p.m. on Friday, the Hancock County 911 center received reports of a shooting involving two vehicles. Witnesses stated that individuals in one car opened fire on another vehicle. Turner, a passenger, was struck multiple times. He was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
The GBI has also reported another person injured in the incident, although their condition remains undisclosed.
The Sparta Police Department requested assistance from the GBI to investigate the case further. As of now, Hunt remains at large, and law enforcement continues to search for him.
The GBI urges anyone with information about this case to come forward. Tips can be submitted via:
- Phone: GBI Regional Investigative Office in Milledgeville at (478) 445-4173 or the anonymous tip line at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477)
- Online: GBI Tip Submission Portal
- Mobile App: See Something, Send Something
This remains an active investigation, and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
The Houston Police Department has confirmed that suspect Robert Lee Davis, also known as Sean Christopher Davis, was shot and killed by law enforcement officers late Wednesday morning.
The confrontation occurred behind a series of businesses near the original shooting location on Stella Link Road, north of the South Loop.
The tragic incident began earlier in the day when Brazoria County Sheriff’s Deputy Jesus “Jesse” Vargas was fatally shot while attempting to apprehend Davis, a repeat violent offender, during the execution of a warrant.
Deputy Vargas was rushed to Ben Taub Hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
Deputy Vargas was a 17-year veteran of the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office and leaves behind a grieving wife and three children. “This afternoon, we lost a local hero,” stated Houston Mayor John Whitmire.
“Deputy Vargas was dedicated to his community, and he gave his life in the line of duty while confronting a dangerous individual. Our hearts are with his family and the entire Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office during this unimaginable time.”
Following the initial shooting, authorities launched a manhunt for Davis, described as a 56-year-old Black male, standing 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing 220 pounds. He was last seen wearing a blue Nike hoodie with white lettering, blue jeans, and blue sneakers. A “Blue Alert” was issued statewide, urging the public to report any sightings and avoid the area.
Davis had an extensive criminal record dating back to 1990, with charges ranging from violent offenses to aggravated sexual assault as recently as December 2024. Law enforcement emphasized the danger posed by Davis, underscoring the urgency of the manhunt.
Law enforcement officers located Davis near Stella Link Road just before noon. Details surrounding the fatal encounter have not been fully released, but Davis was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The loss of Deputy Vargas has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from across the community. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Houston Police Department and the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, are continuing the investigation into the circumstances of both shootings.
“We stand united in honoring the sacrifice of Deputy Vargas and in ensuring justice is served,” said Police Chief Troy Finner. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
The Houston Police Department urges anyone with further details related to this case to contact their office or Crime Stoppers of Houston.