AUGUSTA, GEORGIA — Community Mourns After Fatal Sunday Night Shooting Claims Life of Solomon Lanham

AUGUSTA, GA — A wave of sorrow has swept through the Augusta community following a deadly shooting that occurred late Sunday night, claiming the life of 35-year-old Solomon Lanham. According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 10:39 p.m. on June 15 at the intersection of Essie McIntire Boulevard and Luckey Street—a residential area that has now become the epicenter of grief and mourning.

When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered Lanham lying unresponsive on the pavement, suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving measures, but tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The shocking violence has left neighbors stunned and heartbroken. Residents in the surrounding area reported hearing multiple gunshots ring out in the quiet of the night, followed by the sound of emergency sirens piercing the silence. For many, it marked yet another devastating chapter in the city’s ongoing struggle with gun violence.

Solomon Lanham, known to friends and family as “Solo,” was remembered on Monday as a beloved son, brother, friend, and father. Those who knew him spoke of a warm-hearted man with a gentle soul, who always greeted others with a smile and never hesitated to lend a helping hand. He was described as hardworking, loyal, and deeply committed to his family—especially his young daughter, whom he often referred to as the “light of his life.”

“He didn’t deserve this,” said longtime friend Derrick Mays. “Solomon was a good man. He worked hard, stayed out of trouble, and loved his daughter more than anything. Whoever did this took away a man who meant everything to a lot of people.”

As of Monday afternoon, no arrests have been made, and investigators have yet to release any information regarding a possible suspect or motive. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward, emphasizing that community cooperation is crucial in bringing justice to Lanham and his grieving loved ones.

“We are actively investigating this homicide and are asking for the public’s assistance,” said a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office. “No detail is too small. If you saw or heard anything unusual in the area at that time, please reach out.”

The violent incident has renewed calls from community leaders and local residents for stronger measures to address gun violence in Augusta. Many are demanding improved street lighting, greater police presence in high-risk neighborhoods, and increased investment in community outreach programs.

“This cannot be the norm,” said Pastor Raymond Neal of a nearby church. “We are losing fathers, brothers, and sons to bullets far too often. Our city must come together—leaders, law enforcement, neighbors, and families—to address the root causes of violence and to stand against this tragedy.”

Lanham’s death marks yet another painful reminder of the toll gun violence continues to take on Augusta families. It also reflects a national crisis that sees lives lost in moments of senseless violence, leaving in their wake a trail of trauma, unanswered questions, and broken hearts.

A candlelight vigil in Solomon’s memory is being planned for later this week at the very corner where he was taken from the world too soon. Community members are encouraged to attend, not only to honor his life but to reaffirm their commitment to peace and solidarity in the face of loss.

He is survived by his daughter, his mother, two brothers, and a close-knit circle of friends and extended family who are now left grappling with unimaginable grief.

In a statement shared by the family, they wrote:

“Solomon was more than a name in the headlines. He was our heart. He was a loving father, a supportive son, and a friend who brought joy to so many. We ask for privacy as we mourn this terrible loss and urge anyone who knows something to speak up. Help us get justice for Solomon.”

As the investigation continues, the city of Augusta mourns a life cut tragically short—and braces for answers in a community desperate for healing.