LaGrange man arrested following fatal shooting at apartment complex
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- LaGrange man Azion Avery arrested for fatal shooting; 12-year-old juvenile mishandled stolen firearm, killing Nyquarious Gates.
- Avery charged with furnishing firearm to minor, felony involuntary manslaughter, and other offenses related to negligent weapon access.
A LaGrange man has been arrested and charged following a fatal shooting that claimed the life of Nyquarious Gates earlier this week, according to authorities.
On March 25 at approximately 8:45 p.m., officers with the LaGrange Police Department responded to a report of a person shot at 64 North Cary Street. Upon arrival, officers found Gates suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to WellStar West Georgia Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.
Detectives with the Criminal Investigations Division launched an investigation into the incident. Their findings revealed that a 12-year-old male juvenile had been mishandling a loaded firearm when it discharged, striking Gates. The juvenile was taken into custody and detained.
Following further investigation, authorities determined that the firearm involved belonged to Azion Avery, who was present at the scene at the time of the incident. Detectives concluded that Avery’s negligent actions allowed the minor to gain access to the weapon, ultimately leading to the fatal shooting.
The firearm was recovered, and investigators later discovered it had been reported stolen.
On March 27, Avery was taken into custody and transported to the Troup County Jail. He faces multiple charges, including false statements, furnishing a firearm to a minor, reckless conduct, theft by receiving a stolen firearm, and felony involuntary manslaughter.
Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Detective B. Vinson at 706-883-2620. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous may submit tips through the Tip411 system via its mobile app, online portal, or by texting the keyword LAGRANGE to 847411.
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