In the summer of 2024, the life of an 18-year-old African American woman, Da'Menica 'Meni' Deshyan Roddy, was tragically cut short in a senseless act of violence. A recent graduate of Newton High School, she was eagerly preparing to embark on her next chapter at Savannah State University. Known for her infectious smile and her uplifting presence, she was a social butterfly who never met a stranger and had a passion for music, dancing, and self-care.
On the evening of July 21, 2024, Da'Menica was with two male companions at a Chevron gas station on Highway 36 in Covington, Georgia. While they were in their vehicle, another car pulled up alongside them, and an occupant, or occupants, opened fire. In the aftermath of the shooting, her companions realized she had been struck by gunfire and rushed her to Piedmont Newton Hospital. Despite their efforts, Da'Menica succumbed to her injuries on July 22, 2024.
The Newton County Sheriff's Office launched a thorough investigation into the homicide. Their efforts led to the identification and subsequent arrest of four 19-year-old suspects. Tirell Tommie and Israel Richardson were taken into custody on August 21, 2024. Two days later, on August 23, Savion Walker was apprehended upon his return to the United States at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The fourth suspect, Caryon Grier, was arrested on September 11, 2024.
All four individuals face serious charges, including murder, three counts of aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Tommie, Richardson, and Walker also face an additional charge of making false statements to law enforcement. Following their arrests, all four suspects were held at the Newton County Detention Center without bond, as the community grappled with the loss of a vibrant young woman whose future was stolen by an act of gun violence.
