Investigators continue to tirelessly search for new leads in the tragic death of Valdosta State University student Brianna Long, who was killed three months ago by a stray bullet while working her shift as a bartender at The Pier in Remerton. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is now expected to update Long's family on developments in the case, sources say.
A key piece of evidence surfaced after Lowndes County Sheriff's Office retrieved a gun from an unrelated crime scene. This firearm is reportedly the same caliber as the one used in the fatal incident at The Pier on Oct. 29, 2023. In a statement obtained by WALB, the Lowndes County Sheriff Ashley Paulk said they "are hoping to still help and that the ballistics on the shell casings may lead to something."
As of yet, no arrests have been made, but a $25,000 reward stands for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator. In an appeal to the community, the GBI urged anyone with information to contact their Thomasville Office or the Remerton Police. Tips can also be submitted anonymously, according to FOX 5 Atlanta.
In recent developments, investigators called for public assistance to identify three individuals last seen near the bar on the night of the shooting. Special Agent Jamy Steinburg was quoted by WALB, stating “There are no new updates to be released at this time. The case is still active and being investigated. We continue to follow any leads and are awaiting evidence to be processed…They have not been cleared as suspects.” Brianna Long's parents are slated to meet with the GBI this week to discuss the investigation.
Brianna, remembered fondly by her mother Brandi Spinks as "our world" and an "honors student" who had been cheerleading her "whole little life", was a bright student at VSU in pursuit of becoming a dental hygienist. Sadly, her life was cut short before she could fulfill her dream of graduating and living independently. In a touching gesture of recognition, Valdosta State University plans to award Long her Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene posthumously during a private ceremony in the spring, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta.
