The Valdosta Police Department has issued an urgent manhunt for 16-year-old Damirie Washington, who is wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of a 41-year-old man early Monday morning in the 700 block of Stillwater Drive. The incident, which has left the local community shocked and grieving, occurred in the early hours of December 30, 2024. Authorities have confirmed that Washington is wanted on charges of felony murder and have cautioned the public that he is considered armed and dangerous. Police are actively seeking tips to locate him, emphasizing the severity of harboring a fugitive and urging citizens to cooperate with the investigation.
The incident unfolded just after 1 a.m. on Monday when Valdosta police received multiple calls reporting gunfire in the Stillwater Drive neighborhood, a normally quiet residential area. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered a 41-year-old man, whose identity has not yet been released by authorities pending family notification, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical personnel were called to the location, but despite their efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The tragic loss of life has shaken the neighborhood, with residents expressing disbelief that such violence could erupt so close to home.
In the hours following the discovery of the victim, investigators began piecing together evidence, which quickly led them to identify 16-year-old Damirie Washington as the primary suspect in the case. According to initial reports, Washington fled the scene before authorities arrived. Descriptions provided by witnesses and subsequent investigations revealed that Washington is 5’6” tall, weighs approximately 135 pounds, and has brown eyes and black hair. Police have stated that Washington is likely still in the Valdosta area but have not ruled out the possibility that he may attempt to leave the region to evade capture.
In a press conference held on Tuesday, Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manley addressed the media and the public, stating, “We are committed to ensuring justice is served for the victim and their family. We urge Damirie Washington to turn himself in immediately and avoid further endangering the public or himself. To anyone who may be helping him hide or evade law enforcement: Be aware that aiding a fugitive is a serious crime and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” Chief Manley also emphasized the importance of public cooperation, asking anyone with information about Washington’s whereabouts to contact the Valdosta Police Department or provide tips anonymously through local Crime Stoppers.
While the details surrounding the motive for the shooting remain unclear, investigators are pursuing multiple leads and conducting interviews with potential witnesses. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed whether the victim and the suspect were known to each other or if this was a random act of violence. However, the targeted nature of the shooting suggests a possible prior connection, according to law enforcement sources familiar with the case. Ballistic evidence and surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses are also being analyzed to construct a clearer picture of the events leading up to the fatal encounter.
The tragic death of the 41-year-old victim has left his family and friends devastated. Community members have described him as a hardworking and well-respected individual who was dedicated to his family and actively involved in local church activities. A family friend, speaking on behalf of the grieving family, expressed their anguish: “This is an unimaginable loss for us. He was a kind, loving soul who didn’t deserve to lose his life in such a senseless act of violence. We are praying for justice and for the suspect to be apprehended swiftly.” As the victim’s family prepares for funeral arrangements, they have requested privacy during this difficult time.
In the wake of the shooting, the broader Valdosta community has been left grappling with concerns about gun violence and the troubling trend of youth involvement in violent crimes. Local leaders and activists have called for renewed efforts to address underlying issues such as poverty, lack of opportunities, and access to firearms, which they argue contribute to such tragedies. Reverend Mark Jefferson of the Valdosta Faith Coalition commented, “We need to come together as a community to support our youth and provide them with the resources and guidance they need to make better choices. This tragedy highlights the urgent need for intervention before more lives are lost.”
The case has also reignited discussions about the justice system’s handling of juvenile offenders involved in serious crimes. Legal experts have noted that while Washington is a minor, the gravity of the charges against him—felony murder—means he could be tried as an adult if apprehended and formally charged. Georgia law allows for juveniles aged 13 and older to be prosecuted as adults for certain violent crimes, including murder. If convicted, Washington could face life in prison without the possibility of parole. Criminal defense attorney Patricia Lawson, who has worked on similar cases in the state, remarked, “This is a heartbreaking situation on all sides. While the justice system must hold offenders accountable, we must also consider the circumstances that led a 16-year-old to commit such an act and explore ways to prevent such outcomes in the future.”
The search for Damirie Washington has intensified, with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies collaborating to track down the fugitive. Police have established a tip hotline and are offering a reward for information leading to Washington’s arrest. They have also increased patrols in the Stillwater Drive area and other parts of Valdosta where Washington is believed to have connections. In addition to pursuing investigative leads, officers have distributed wanted posters featuring Washington’s photo and description in public spaces and online platforms to raise awareness and encourage tips from the community.
Residents of Valdosta have expressed a mix of fear and determination in the aftermath of the incident. Many have taken to social media to share their thoughts and offer condolences to the victim’s family. Neighborhood watch groups have organized meetings to discuss safety measures and strategies to support law enforcement efforts. Local businesses and organizations have also joined in, offering resources to families affected by violence and promoting community-building initiatives.
As the investigation continues, the Valdosta Police Department has reiterated its commitment to keeping the public informed. Updates on the case, including any new developments or arrests, will be shared through official channels. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case or Washington’s whereabouts to come forward, stressing that even the smallest detail could prove critical in bringing the suspect to justice.
The tragic events on Stillwater Drive serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities. As Valdosta mourns the loss of a beloved community member, the hope remains that justice will be served and that meaningful steps will be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.
