In a city rocked by a spasm of violence, a young man’s life was cut short, leaving a family to grapple with a sudden and devastating loss. De’Anthony Markell Miles, a 24-year-old Black male, was fatally shot on the evening of Friday, February 17, 2023, in Columbus, Georgia. The incident was one of eight separate shootings that occurred over a violent 72-hour period in the city, a surge that resulted in five deaths and left the community reeling.
The fatal encounter took place in the
2300 block of Schaul Street. Responding to a call about a shooting, police officers arrived to find De’Anthony Miles in a driveway, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to Piedmont Columbus Regional hospital, but his injuries proved too severe. He was pronounced dead at 6:58 p.m. by the Muscogee County Coroner.
Born on January 9, 1999, to Angela Miles-Smith and Fabian James, De’Anthony was a graduate of Central High School. He had pursued higher education, attending Miles College in Birmingham, Alabama. Known for his radiant smile and sweet personality, he was a man who cherished family above all else. His bond with his parents was special, but the greatest love in his life was his son, De’Anthony Epps, Jr. A football enthusiast, he had forged a strong brotherhood with his teammates.
In the wake of the shooting, an investigation was launched, which quickly led to a suspect. Kenyonte Hudson was arrested in connection with the death of De’Anthony Miles. He has since been charged with murder, aggravated assault, and the use of a firearm to commit a crime, bringing a measure of progress for a grieving family and a community searching for answers amidst a wave of violence.
