Augusta, Georgia — Wendarius Harris, a 23-year-old man, is currently being sought by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office for questioning in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred on Sunday night at the intersection of Riverfront Drive and Prep Phillips Drive in Augusta. The tragic incident, which left 26-year-old Zyshawn Franklin of Augusta dead, occurred in the 100 block of Riverfront Drive near the popular Augusta Boathouse, during what deputies described as a large, unpermitted gathering.

The shooting took place around 8:30 p.m. on May 4, 2025, and has left the community reeling, as investigators work to piece together the details of what led to the fatal confrontation. As of now, Harris is not facing any charges but is wanted for questioning, and law enforcement has issued a public appeal for anyone with information regarding his whereabouts or the shooting to come forward. This incident is part of a disturbing trend of gun violence in the region, highlighting both the challenges of unregulated gatherings and the risks posed by escalating conflicts in public spaces.

The Fatal Incident: What We Know So Far

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire in the 100 block of Riverfront Drive, a street that runs along the Augusta Riverwalk area and near the Augusta Boathouse. Deputies arrived on the scene to find Zyshawn Franklin suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite swift medical response, Franklin was pronounced dead at 9:15 p.m., about 45 minutes after law enforcement arrived. The death was confirmed by the Richmond County Coroner’s Office, marking another life lost to gun violence in Augusta.

Two additional victims were injured during the shooting, sustaining gunshot wounds. They were transported to a local hospital, though their conditions have not been publicly disclosed. The nature of their injuries remains unclear, but the fact that they survived offers some hope in an otherwise tragic scenario.

At the time of the shooting, the gathering at which the incident occurred was described as an unpermitted and unsanctioned event. Large gatherings, particularly those that are not organized through official channels or have not been authorized by local authorities, have often been linked to higher levels of disorder and violence, making incidents like this one all the more concerning.

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and the circumstances surrounding the dispute that led to the violence are still under investigation. However, the fact that this shooting occurred at an unregulated gathering raises important questions about the dynamics of such events and their potential to escalate into violence.

Wendarius Harris: The Man Sought for Questioning

Wendarius Harris, a 23-year-old male from Augusta, is currently wanted for questioning in connection with the shooting that claimed Zyshawn Franklin’s life. Authorities have described Harris as a Black male, approximately 6 feet tall, weighing 155 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. According to law enforcement, Harris is known to frequent areas such as the East Boundary in Augusta, as well as Batesburg, South Carolina.

While Harris has not been formally charged in connection with the shooting, investigators believe he may have vital information about the incident. His connection to the crime scene, if any, remains unclear, but law enforcement officials are keen to speak with him as part of the ongoing investigation.

The investigation into Harris’s whereabouts has prompted law enforcement to reach out to the public for help. Officials are urging anyone who may have seen Harris in the area or knows his whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be provided directly to the sheriff’s office at 706-821-1020, or individuals can email the department at pio@augustaga.gov. Anonymous tips are also welcome and encouraged, and Delaware Crime Stoppers has offered a reward for information that leads to an arrest.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are also calling attention to the broader implications of the event and the challenges posed by unregulated gatherings, which often lead to increased tension and violence in public spaces.

A Community Shaken: Zyshawn Franklin’s Life and Legacy

Zyshawn Franklin’s untimely death has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the Augusta community. Known for his vibrant personality and deep ties to his hometown, Franklin was a young man with a promising future. The circumstances of his death have only heightened the grief felt by those who knew him. Family members, friends, and acquaintances have expressed their sorrow at his loss, remembering him as someone who always had a positive attitude and was deeply loved by those around him.

Franklin’s family, in particular, has been left devastated by his death. In the wake of the tragedy, his relatives have spoken out, describing him as a son, brother, and friend whose potential was cut short by senseless violence. For those who knew him, Franklin’s memory will live on not just in the context of his tragic death, but through the countless moments of joy and connection he brought to the lives of those around him.

As with many victims of gun violence, Franklin’s death has brought the conversation about the pervasive issue of gun violence into sharp focus. The incident has sparked renewed calls for action and reflection on how communities can address and prevent such senseless loss of life.

The Role of Unpermitted Gatherings: The Risk of Public Events Without Oversight

One of the key aspects of the shooting is the fact that it took place at an unpermitted gathering. While many gatherings in public spaces are peaceful, those that are not properly regulated or managed can lead to chaos, with heightened risks of violence. The fact that this shooting occurred in a public area, near a well-known local establishment like the Augusta Boathouse, underscores the dangers of such unsanctioned events.

Unpermitted gatherings, especially those held in public spaces, often lack the necessary oversight and security measures that could prevent conflicts from escalating. Without proper permits, law enforcement agencies are often unable to monitor the event or intervene if tensions rise. This makes it easier for disputes to escalate into violent encounters, as there is a lack of crowd control and security protocols to de-escalate potential conflicts.

The issue of unpermitted gatherings has become increasingly prominent in recent years, particularly in urban areas where public spaces are used for various social events, protests, and gatherings. While many of these events are peaceful, some become breeding grounds for conflict, especially when emotions run high or disputes arise over minor issues. The tragic shooting of Zyshawn Franklin is a stark reminder of the potential dangers of such events and the need for communities to ensure proper oversight and safety protocols in public spaces.

Gun Violence in Augusta: A Growing Problem

The tragic shooting of Zyshawn Franklin is part of a larger trend of gun violence that has affected Augusta and other areas of Georgia. Like many cities across the United States, Augusta has seen an increase in gun-related incidents in recent years. According to recent crime data, Augusta has experienced a rise in shootings, with both homicides and non-fatal shootings increasing steadily. In 2024, the city saw a 14% rise in gun-related incidents compared to the previous year, with more than 300 reported shootings.

This rise in violence is part of a larger trend observed across the country, where gun violence continues to escalate despite ongoing debates over gun control laws and safety measures. Local officials have expressed concern over the growing number of shootings in Augusta, particularly in relation to public safety in areas where violence has historically been less common.

The increase in gun violence in Augusta has led many community leaders and activists to call for stricter gun control measures and better community policing efforts. Experts argue that addressing the root causes of violence, such as poverty, mental health issues, and social disenfranchisement, is key to reducing gun-related incidents in the city. Community programs aimed at reducing gang violence, increasing mental health support, and providing youth with opportunities for positive engagement are seen as crucial elements in the fight against rising gun violence.

The Legal and Social Implications: What Comes Next?

As the investigation into the death of Zyshawn Franklin continues, the legal and social implications of the case remain at the forefront. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is working diligently to find Wendarius Harris and gain insight into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Given the ongoing nature of the investigation, it is unclear whether Harris will face formal charges, though the case is expected to have significant legal and social consequences.

For the community of Augusta, the death of Franklin serves as a painful reminder of the dangers of unchecked violence and the need for greater attention to gun safety and public gathering regulations. The incident is likely to prompt further discussions about how to address rising gun violence, particularly in public spaces and at unpermitted events, as well as the role of law enforcement in preventing such tragedies.

If Harris is apprehended, the case may also spark renewed debates over the criminal justice system’s handling of violent offenders, the importance of effective conflict resolution, and the broader societal factors that contribute to violence. The outcome of the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings will likely have long-lasting effects on the community and influence future discussions on public safety and gun control.

Conclusion: A Community Grieves, and Justice Remains to Be Seen

The tragic death of Zyshawn Franklin has left the Augusta community reeling. While the investigation continues and authorities search for Wendarius Harris, those who knew Franklin are left to mourn the loss of a young life filled with promise. The ripple effects of his death will be felt for years to come, as the community grapples with the impact of gun violence in their own backyard.

For Franklin’s family and friends, the quest for justice is far from over. As the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office works to uncover the truth behind the shooting, they are calling on the community to step forward with any information that could help bring those responsible to justice. Meanwhile, the people of Augusta continue to reflect on the consequences of violence and the steps needed to ensure that such senseless tragedies are not repeated in the future.

The search for Wendarius Harris and the ongoing investigation into the shooting will undoubtedly remain a major focus in the coming months. The community of Augusta, as well as law enforcement, is determined to see justice served, and to prevent further loss of life due to gun violence. In the memory of Zyshawn Franklin, those left behind will continue to fight for a safer, more peaceful community.