On Sunday night, May 4, 2025, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office responded to a tragic incident that left one person dead and two others injured following a deadly shooting near Augusta’s scenic riverfront. The incident occurred around 8:30 p.m. in the 100 block of Riverfront Drive, a location known for its natural beauty and recreational activities along the Savannah River. The shooting has left the community shaken, especially considering the setting—once a peaceful stretch of riverfront that quickly turned into a scene of chaos.
The victim, 26-year-old Zyshawn Franklin, was found suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite the swift arrival of emergency responders, Franklin was pronounced dead at the scene by the Richmond County Coroner’s Office at 9:15 p.m. His death has cast a dark shadow over Augusta, leaving friends, family, and the local community in shock and mourning. Franklin’s untimely death has prompted a significant investigation by law enforcement, and authorities are asking for the public’s help in solving this case.
The shooting occurred during what appeared to be an unsanctioned social gathering along Riverfront Drive. A large crowd had gathered without a permit, and while the exact nature of the event remains under investigation, it was clear that things quickly escalated into violence. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with gunshots ringing out amidst the crowd, leaving Franklin dead and two others wounded. The details of the gathering have yet to be fully revealed, but local authorities believe it was a gathering that was not authorized or planned through the proper channels.
Franklin’s death is not the only casualty of this tragic event. Two additional victims were injured during the incident and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. As of Monday morning, the identities of the injured individuals have not been released, nor have any updates been provided on their conditions. It remains unclear whether these victims were specifically targeted in the shooting or if they were simply innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire.
The investigation into the shooting is being led by the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, with a focus on piecing together the events that led to the deadly violence. While no formal suspects have been named yet, authorities are actively seeking 23-year-old Wendarius Harris for questioning. Harris, a Black male approximately 6 feet tall and weighing 155 pounds, is known to frequent two locations: the East Boundary neighborhood in Augusta and Batesburg in South Carolina. Law enforcement officials have issued an appeal for the public’s help in locating Harris, asking anyone who may have seen him or has information on his whereabouts to come forward.
Wendarius Harris is not currently a formal suspect in the homicide, but investigators have expressed that he is a person of interest. They are working to piece together the details of his potential involvement, if any, in the shooting. At this time, no weapons have been recovered from the scene, and law enforcement has not confirmed whether Harris is armed or dangerous. The Sheriff’s Office is continuing to gather evidence, analyze surveillance footage from the area, and speak with potential witnesses to determine what exactly led to the tragic shooting and the subsequent loss of life.
An autopsy for Zyshawn Franklin has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of his death. The investigation continues as authorities seek justice for Franklin and his family, while also working to ensure that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice. Despite the early stages of the investigation, law enforcement is urging community members to come forward with any relevant information. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the LMPD Crime Tip Line at (502) 574-LMPD (5673) or via email at pio@augustaga.gov. The public’s cooperation is seen as vital in solving this case and bringing closure to those affected by this senseless act of violence.
The grief in the community is palpable as residents of Augusta, especially those living near Riverfront Drive, struggle to come to terms with the loss of Zyshawn Franklin. While Franklin’s family has not publicly spoken about his passing, tributes have begun to appear on social media, with friends and loved ones remembering him fondly for his easygoing nature and deep ties to the local community. The suddenness of his death has left many in shock, and the community is mourning the loss of a young man with much potential.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, local officials are taking steps to review safety protocols for large gatherings, especially those held in public spaces without permits. The unauthorized gathering at Riverfront Drive raises concerns about the safety of such events and whether more stringent enforcement of event permits and public safety measures is needed in the future. Local leaders have expressed that they are committed to ensuring the safety of the community and will explore ways to prevent future incidents of this nature.
The tragic events of May 4 have reignited concerns about gun violence and public safety in the city of Augusta. The shooting has added to the ongoing conversation about how to address the increasing rates of violence and the accessibility of firearms in the community. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has reiterated its commitment to holding individuals accountable for violent actions and is continuing to prioritize public safety as the investigation moves forward.
As the families of Zyshawn Franklin and the other victims involved in the shooting grieve, the city of Augusta is left grappling with the loss of a young life taken too soon. Franklin’s death, along with the violence that unfolded on Riverfront Drive, has deeply impacted the community, and many are left asking how such a senseless tragedy could have been prevented. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the details surrounding the shooting and is working diligently to bring justice to the victims and their families.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community cooperation, vigilance, and the need to address the root causes of violence in our neighborhoods. As the investigation unfolds, the people of Augusta will undoubtedly continue to mourn the loss of a young man with so much life ahead of him. The city stands united in its hope that justice will be served and that the circumstances that led to this senseless violence will be thoroughly examined.
As the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office continues its work, the call for information and cooperation from the public remains at the forefront of the investigation. Law enforcement is asking anyone with knowledge of the events surrounding the shooting to come forward, in hopes of shedding light on what transpired on that tragic evening.
In the days and weeks to come, the city of Augusta will remain united in its grief, while also holding hope for justice and a safer community moving forward.
