‘Armed and Dangerous’ No More: Fifth Suspect Captured in April Shooting That Shook Valdosta and Beyond

By Carol A. Moore

VALDOSTA, Lowndes County, Georgia – A Valdosta man once labeled “armed and dangerous” is now in custody, bringing closure to a months-long manhunt tied to a violent April shooting that left a teenager riddled with bullets and a community on edge.

Kewame “KJ” Antwan Taylor, 19, was arrested without incident on July 11 at Park Chase Apartments in Valdosta. He faces three counts of aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Police say he was the final suspect wanted in connection to the April 26 shooting that hospitalized an 18-year-old male with multiple gunshot wounds.

The shooting occurred just before midnight outside Friendly’s Express on Inner Perimeter Road, where a dispute between two groups spiraled into a burst of gunfire. Authorities confirmed that several firearms were discharged in the parking lot. The victim, whose name has not been released, survived with non-life-threatening injuries.

Taylor’s arrest follows the earlier capture of four other suspects in May:

• Trevion “Tre” McGee, 20

• Tyrese “Bubalo” McGee, 18

• Callon “CJ” Sturrup, 18

• Caleb Dennis, 18

Each faces the same felony charges as Taylor.

Regional Ripples: Lanier County Connections

While the crime occurred in Lowndes County, investigators believe there may be residential or familial ties to Lanier County among those arrested. The Valdosta Police Department has been in contact with Lanier County Sheriff’s Office investigators as part of their ongoing probe. Local authorities are urging anyone with information—even those outside Valdosta—to come forward.

“This wasn’t just a Valdosta incident,” a police spokesperson said. “This kind of violence reverberates across county lines. Families in Lanier and surrounding areas feel the shock, too.”

Residents in Lanier County who may have observed unusual activity around the time of the shooting, or who have ties to the individuals involved, are encouraged to contact VPD at 229-293-3145 or 229-293-3091.

What’s Next

The suspects remain held in Lowndes County Jail. Preliminary court appearances are expected later this month. Prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges as evidence is reviewed.

In the wake of the shooting, regional law enforcement has stepped up patrols and community outreach, especially among youth populations. The Friendly’s Express incident is one of several acts of gun violence this year that have alarmed families and leaders across South Georgia.

As the case progresses through the legal system, both Valdosta and Lanier County communities wait for justice—and healing.

Kewame “KJ” Antwan Taylor