Augusta: Explosives Shot into Broad Street Crowd; Thrown Towards Deputy
In a disturbing incident in Augusta, a duo comprising of a local man and a teenager ignited fear and panic when they allegedly shot an explosive into a crowd and hurled a firework explosive towards an officer. The sinister act took place in the early hours of Friday in a bustling section of downtown Broad Street.
Explosive Hurled into Crowd of Pedestrians: Suspect Arrested
Davon Reed, 25, was reported to have thrust an explosive device into a crowd of pedestrians, near the intersection of Broad and 10th street, around 12:53 AM. The time-specific area was reportedly swelling with about 20 pedestrians. The sheer audacity of the act incited widespread panic and chaos among the crowd.
Deputy Nicholas Boyd, who was in the vicinity, sprung into action and attempted to detain the suspect. The chase, however, proved to be a daunting task, as Reed fled from the spot, managing to evade a pair of Taser shots from the officer. The suspect was eventually apprehended after he tripped and fell.
Post his capture, Reed was charged with the possession of an explosive device intended to kill or injure and obstruction.
Firework Explosive Thrown towards Deputy: Teen with Stolen Firearm Detained
While the town was still reeling under the shock of the first incident, another threat presented itself blocks away. Machai Smith, an 18-year-old, was spotted throwing a firework explosive towards an on-duty officer around 1:44 AM.
A nearby deputy saw the teenager running and managed to bring him down. Subsequent to his arrest, the officers while searching Smith’s bag, found a Smith & Wesson firearm, which was reportedly stolen from Columbia County. This added thievery to his list of offenses, leading to him being charged with possession of an explosive device to kill or injure, and theft by receiving stolen property.
Both Suspects Held at Charles B. Webster Detention Center
The alleged criminal pair is being held at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center as of Sunday. Fortunately, despite the unsettling incidents, no injuries have been reported. The quick action and vigilant surveillance by the deputies saved potential victims from harm.
This alarming node in the city’s crime trajectory has added urgency to the need for robust law enforcement and security measures. The residents and officials will be hoping for swift justice and stringent security measures to ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.
