Georgia Police Charge Six Minors in Drowning Death of 15-Year-Old
Six children, the youngest being just nine years old, have been charged in connection with the drowning death of a 15-year-old boy last month in Columbus, Georgia. The Columbus Police Department announced these charges on Thursday, highlighting a tragic incident that took place on May 23 and wasn’t reported until nearly a week later.
The incident occurred in Columbus, approximately 115 miles southwest of Atlanta, near the Alabama state line. Officers responded to a report on May 29 of a body floating in a retention pond located behind a residential neighborhood in Oakland Park.
Zahmere Greene Identified as the Victim
The victim was identified as 15-year-old Zahmere Greene. Preliminary findings by the Violent Crimes Unit indicated that Zahmere drowned on May 23. However, the incident wasn’t brought to light until six days later. The Muscogee County Coroner’s Office conducted an autopsy, and the medical examiner ruled Zahmere’s death a homicide, as confirmed by police spokesperson Brittany Santiago.
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Further investigation revealed that six juveniles witnessed Zahmere’s drowning. Among them, an 11-year-old boy was reportedly on top of Zahmere when he died. This boy, along with five other minors aged 9 to 17, now faces charges related to the incident.
Breakdown of Charges Against the Minors
The juveniles charged in this case are:
- A 17-year-old boy: Concealing the death of another
- A 12-year-old girl: Concealing the death of another
- An 11-year-old boy: Involuntary manslaughter and concealing the death of another
- An 11-year-old girl: Concealing the death of another
- Another 11-year-old girl: Concealing the death of another
- A 9-year-old boy: Concealing the death of another
Details of the Incident and Arrests
The 11-year-old boy charged with involuntary manslaughter was reportedly on top of Zahmere at the time of his death. This boy is currently being held in the Regional Youth Detention Center. It is believed that all the children involved were enrolled in the Muscogee County School District, and it appears that Zahmere and the 11-year-old boy knew each other.
On Friday, police confirmed that the 17-year-old boy, who is the older brother of one of the girls charged, turned himself in. He was arrested and booked into the Muscogee County Jail. His case has been transferred to adult court, and he was released after posting a $1,500 bond. The other juveniles were processed, charged, and released to their parents.
Community Reaction and Police Statement
In response to the incident, the Columbus Police Department emphasized the importance of parental guidance and community vigilance. “The principle of ‘see something, say something’ is vital in helping prevent tragedies and ensuring the safety of our community,” the department posted on its Facebook page. They urged parents to encourage their children to report any wrongdoings immediately to prevent such tragedies.
This tragic event has shaken the community, raising awareness about the responsibilities and the impact of actions among minors. The charges against the six juveniles mark a significant step in the ongoing investigation and pursuit of justice for Zahmere Greene.
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