Ronnie Brooks Jr., a 24-year-old Black man known to loved ones as "Boobie," was a father to a small child in Columbus, Georgia. His life was celebrated by family and friends who gathered after his death to light candles, say prayers, and release balloons in his memory. His sister, Porshia Mahone, remembered him with deep sorrow, stating, “When he left here yesterday, a part of me left. My heart is going to forever feel empty in that spot. I just ain’t going to ever get over it.
I miss you Boobie, and I love you forever.”
On February 8, 2019, Brooks was shot at the Parkchester Apartments on Buena Vista Road. He was rushed to Piedmont Columbus Regional hospital, where he was treated for a gunshot wound. For a week, he fought for his life, but he ultimately succumbed to his injuries on February 15, 2019. The Muscogee County Coroner’s office confirmed his death, which was ruled a homicide, prompting an investigation by the Columbus Police Department.
The investigation led to the arrest of 26-year-old Kevon Carter, who was charged with murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. At the time of Carter's arrest, police announced that additional arrests were expected in the case. Subsequently, a second man, Quardarrius Strong, was also charged with the murder of Ronnie Brooks Jr.
Strong’s case has moved through the court system over several years. He was initially released on his own recognizance in July 2019 but was taken back into custody on June 28, 2021, after his bond was revoked. The revocation occurred after pictures reportedly surfaced showing him with another defendant related to the case, which violated his bond conditions. In July 2022, a judge set a new bond for Strong at $150,000 with several conditions, including an ankle monitor and a curfew.
In March 2024, Quardarrius Strong appeared in court for a pre-trial hearing. During the proceedings, he was offered a plea deal, which he refused. Following his rejection of the deal, a new trial date was set for May 6, 2024.
