Aggravated assault reported near Health Sciences Campus of AU
By Rodrigo Burgos-Avila | Editor in chief
The Augusta University Police Department responded to shots being fired at an occupied vehicle at the Sunoco Gas Station on 15th Street and Central Avenue on Tuesday, May 20, at approximately 9:26 p.m.
Police termed the incident an aggravated assault. Because of the proximity to Augusta University, a Jag Alert was sent out Tuesday night.
At the time of the incident, there were no reported injuries, and only the vehicle was damaged by a bullet.
The suspect left the area, and his whereabouts were unknown.
The suspect was described in the Jag Alert as a young Black male who wore a black hoodie, ski mask and shorts. The man was carrying a backpack and riding a red bicycle with black handlebars.
In the Jag Alert, AU Police said that if the suspect is seen, citizens are not to approach him. Instead, call 911 or AU Police at (706) 721-2911.
The federal government describes aggravated assault as an illegal act where one person attacks another with the intent to cause serious or severe injury. This kind of assault often involves a weapon or an instrument capable of causing death or significant physical harm.
AU Police tell all the members of the AU community to not walk alone on or off campus, protect yourself from strangers, notify AU Police if you ever see anything suspicious or if you have any questions or safety concerns.
The gas station is located across the street from a resident hall owned by AU.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is handling the investigation. The sheriff’s office had no comment on the case when contacted by the Bell Ringer.
Contact Rodrigo Burgos-Avila at rburgosavila@augusta.edu.
Shot was fired at this location on Central Avenue at 15th Street in downtown Augusta. A pair of residence life buildings are across the street. (photos by Rodrigo Burgos-Avila/the Bell Ringer)
