In Augusta, Georgia, a young life was tragically cut short in November 2023. Four-year-old Zykee Ryans, a male child, died from a gunshot wound in what authorities initially described as a possibly self-inflicted incident. The event that led to his death occurred on November 12, 2023, and he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, November 25, 2023.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting prompted an investigation by the Richmond County Sheriff's Office.
In connection with Zykee's death, two individuals were arrested. Brittany Ryans, 35, and Ladarion Ryans, 19, both faced charges of five counts of cruelty to children in the second degree. Following Zykee's death, these charges were upgraded to include second-degree murder for both individuals. Brittany Ryans was taken into custody shortly after the incident.
Initially, authorities sought the public's help in locating Ladarion Ryans, who was considered armed and dangerous. He was later apprehended by law enforcement. The investigation suggested that the tragedy resulted from an unsecured firearm. Just days before what would have been his fifth birthday, Zykee found the gun and accidentally shot himself. His death was confirmed by the Richmond County Coroner, and an autopsy was scheduled to be performed.
