Augusta Man Shot by Deputies After Threatening Behavior During Party Patrol

Augusta Man in Hospital After Deputy-Involved Shooting

Augusta, GA – In a dramatic turn of events, Ray Terrell Streetman Jr., a 27-year-old man from our area, has been shot while allegedly attempting to drive at deputies in Burke County. This incident is especially significant as Streetman was already awaiting trial for a serious charge regarding a murder case that dates back to 2021.

The Incident Unfolds

The scene unfolded on a Sunday night when the Burke County deputies responded to reports of a large party taking place on Martin Luther King Blvd in Keysville. Once they arrived, they found a sizable crowd and immediately began their efforts to disperse the gathering. Colonel Jimmy Wylds from the Burke County Sheriff’s Office reported that during this operation, they observed a male driver behaving recklessly and showing signs of danger.

Things escalated when deputies noticed this individual, identified as Streetman, had begun to accelerate directly toward one of the officers who was trying to manage traffic in the area. Caught in a precarious situation and feeling threatened, one of the deputies discharged their weapon in an attempt to neutralize the immediate risk. However, Streetman didn’t stick around; instead, he fled from the scene.

Aftermath and Medical Attention

After the chaotic event, an unidentified person dropped Streetman off at an Emergency Medical Assistance station just after 10 p.m. It was then that it became clear he had sustained a gunshot wound to his left side. Emergency responders rushed him to WellStar Hospital in Augusta, where he is currently in stable condition.

Legal Troubles Mount

The situation adds to Streetman’s existing legal troubles. He now faces two additional charges of aggravated assault on a police officer, as well as charges related to fleeing from law enforcement. This brings yet another layer to a complicated legal journey that began when he was arrested in 2021 for the murder of Ashaad “Shaad” Truitt. That incident, which took place outside the Red Crab restaurant, left 31-year-old Truitt dead and a 28-year-old woman injured.

It’s worth mentioning that Streetman was released on bond as recently as February 2023, but his murder trial has faced several delays, leaving many in the community wondering what will happen next.

Community Response

As the community digests this news, it’s natural for folks to have questions about safety and the ongoing situation in our neighborhoods. Sheriff Alfonso Williams has called for the Columbia County Use of Force Team to investigate the shooting incident that took place on Sunday. The hope is that a thorough investigation will help clarify what exactly happened during those tense moments and provide some peace of mind to the community.

It’s a troubling reminder of how quickly situations can spiral out of control and the serious implications that follow. Thankfully, no deputies or civilians were harmed during this alarming incident, but it has raised concerns about public safety and the ongoing issues surrounding crime in our area.

Looking Forward

As time moves forward, both the legal case surrounding Streetman and ongoing investigations will capture the community’s attention. Everyone hopes that justice will prevail and that measures will be taken to ensure the safety of all residents. It’s been a difficult year for many, and this incident only adds to the worries that so many have about crime and safety.

A lot is evolving in Augusta, and while we’re all hoping for calm, it’s essential to remain aware and engaged as the story continues to unfold.