Two Charged in Critical Downtown Augusta Shooting

A 61-year-old man from Edgefield, South Carolina, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during a failed robbery attempt in downtown Augusta early Saturday morning. Authorities say Destiny Reeves lured the victim toward a parked car where Da’Mon Cole, a convicted felon, was hiding; as the victim approached, Cole shot him. The incident occurred on Broad Street around bar closing time and is being described as a targeted attack. Thanks to the Richmond County Sheriff's Office's proactive downtown safety plan—with two deputies assigned to each block on weekends—officers quickly apprehended both suspects and recovered a firearm. Cole and Reeves face multiple charges, including aggravated assault, attempted armed robbery, and possession of a firearm during a crime, with Cole facing additional charges as a felon in possession of a firearm. Local officials emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance safety and vibrancy in downtown Augusta despite recent challenges.