Man Accused of Throwing Explosive Device into Downtown Augusta Crowd

AUGUSTA, Ga.

A man from Burke County has been detained after allegedly throwing an explosive device into a crowd of pedestrians at the bustling intersection of Broad Street and 10th Street in Augusta, Georgia. This terrifying incident reportedly occurred around 1 a.m. on July 5th and comes amid growing concerns about escalating violence in the area. The man, identified as 25-year-old Davon Reed, is now facing several charges including possession of an explosive device with the intent to kill or injure, and obstruction of a law enforcement officer.

The Incident

According to deputies from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, they were on routine patrol near 10th Street and Jones Street when they noticed Reed launching an explosive device into a crowd. Approximately 20 civilians were present at the location when the explosive was thrown, making it a dangerous act threatening the immediate safety of all those in the vicinity.

The Chase and Arrest

Once Reed was identified as a suspect, he reportedly attempted to evade arrest by fleeing on foot. Despite the commands by the law enforcement officers for Reed to stop, he insisted on resisting arrest. Deputy Nicholas Boyd, in response, deployed his county-issued Taser X7. While one probe struck Reed in the lower right leg, the other did not hit its target. After the initial failure to incapacitate the suspect, Deputy Boyd deployed a second taser cartridge which also did not successfully strike Reed.

Despite this, Reed continued to run until he stumbled and fell to the ground at the intersection of 10th Street and Jones Street. This stumble allowed the deputies to successfully detain and arrest him. This occurred in the backdrop of earlier reports of individuals seen throwing a firework-like device into the street in Augusta, further heightening the prevailing atmosphere of apprehension in the area.

Growing Public Concerns

This recent incident strikes a worrying chord with the residents of Augusta, coming on the heels of the tragic shooting at Augusta Mall which left one injured. The arrest ignites urgent calls for enhanced security measures in public spaces to ensure the safety of citizens. Meanwhile, the law enforcement authorities continue to actively investigate the incident and further updates are awaited.

Reed’s Charges

Reed, now in police custody, faces severe charges. If convicted, possession of an explosive device with intent to kill or injure could lead to significant prison time, not to mention the additional charges for resisting arrest. His actions have not only endangered individual lives but also severely strained the sense of safety and community in Augusta. As investigations continue, the city will be watching closely and hoping for a swift resolution to this case.