The city of Dublin, Georgia, is mourning the loss of 35-year-old Cortez Hicks, who was tragically killed in a shooting that took place on Wednesday afternoon, September 11, 2024. The incident, which has left his family and friends in shock, unfolded in the 400 block of Jones Village Lane in Laurens County, where Hicks lived. Authorities are now investigating the fatal shooting as loved ones try to make sense of the tragedy that has taken away a cherished father, brother, and friend.
At approximately 11:55 a.m., Dublin Police were dispatched to the scene after receiving a distress call reporting a shooting. When officers arrived at the location, they discovered Hicks gravely injured and immediately transported him to Fairview Park Hospital. Despite the rapid response and medical intervention, Hicks succumbed to his injuries shortly after noon, with his time of death recorded as 12:24 p.m.
The tragic news of Hicks’ death sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, especially among his family members, who are left devastated by the senseless violence. Cortez’s sister, Jetta Myricks, has been grappling with the overwhelming grief of losing her brother, whom she described as her “backbone” and closest confidant. In a heartfelt statement to local news outlets, Myricks expressed her profound sorrow and disbelief that her brother’s life had been taken in such a cruel and sudden manner.
“I really do miss him,” Myricks said, her voice heavy with emotion. “Whoever did that to him, he didn’t deserve to get killed like that.” The words capture not just the anguish of a grieving sister but also the lingering question that has haunted those who knew and loved Cortez: Why did this happen to him?
For those who knew Cortez, his death is not just the loss of another life in a world marred by violence but the untimely end of a man who was deeply loved by his family and community. Friends and relatives gathered outside Hicks’ home on the day of the shooting, struggling to comprehend how such a tragedy could have unfolded in the place he called home. Many spoke of Cortez’s gentle nature, his sense of humor, and his unwavering dedication to his family, especially his young child.
Family members like Myricks have been particularly vocal in their pain, pointing out the immeasurable loss that Hicks’ death represents for those who depended on him. “Y’all took him away from his child, and his nieces and nephews,” Myricks said, tearfully recalling the close bonds Hicks had with his family. “And I feel like y’all took him away from me, and that’s all that I had. That was my backbone.” Her words underscore the profound personal loss felt by those closest to Hicks and the void left behind by his absence.
Hicks’ death has reverberated through social media as well, where more than 80 Facebook users took to the platform to express their sorrow and disbelief. Friends, extended family, and even acquaintances who had interacted with Hicks over the years shared their condolences and reflected on the many ways he had touched their lives. The outpouring of grief reflects the deep sense of community that exists in Dublin, where Hicks was known and loved by many.
In addition to being remembered as a beloved brother and father, Cortez Hicks is also being honored for the positive impact he had on those around him. Friends and relatives describe him as someone who could always bring a smile to people’s faces, no matter the circumstances. He had a unique way of lifting the spirits of those around him, often using humor and kindness to support his family and friends.
One of the most striking memories shared by Myricks was Hicks’ love for travel. Although he had faced health challenges—particularly epilepsy, which kept him close to home in recent years—Cortez had a passion for exploring new places and making memories with those he loved. This sense of adventure and excitement for life is something that those closest to him will always remember, even as they struggle to come to terms with his untimely death.
“Cortez always been there for me through it all, that’s all I had,” Myricks said, reflecting on the bond they shared. Her words carry the weight of a sister mourning not just her brother’s death but the loss of a constant source of strength and support. Despite the immense grief she is experiencing, Myricks has vowed to remain strong for her nephew and her family. “I’m gonna stand up and be that strong girl that I need to be for my nephew and be an auntie and straighten up my life and get right for my brother,” she added, signaling her determination to honor Cortez’s memory by being a pillar of support for the next generation.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, Dublin Police have not yet released further details about the circumstances surrounding Hicks’ death. There are no immediate reports of suspects, and it remains unclear what motivated the fatal shooting. Law enforcement authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation. Meanwhile, the community waits anxiously for answers as they try to come to terms with this devastating loss.
The tragic death of Cortez Hicks is another painful reminder of the ongoing violence that plagues communities across the country. In Dublin, the loss of a man who brought joy and laughter to those around him is being deeply felt, and the community is rallying together in an effort to support his family during this difficult time. Vigils and online memorials are being planned in his honor, as friends and family come together to celebrate his life and mourn his untimely death.
For Jetta Myricks and the rest of Hicks’ family, the road to healing will be long and challenging. But even in the midst of their grief, there is a shared commitment to ensuring that Cortez’s memory lives on and that his young child, as well as his nieces and nephews, grow up knowing the love and warmth that he brought into the world.
As the investigation unfolds, the hope is that justice will be served and that the person or persons responsible for this senseless act of violence will be held accountable. In the meantime, the community of Dublin is left grappling with the tragic loss of a man who meant so much to so many. Through their shared memories and support, those who loved Cortez Hicks will continue to keep his spirit alive, even as they mourn his sudden and heartbreaking departure from their lives.
