An 18-year-old Griffin resident's life came to a tragic end following what police describe as a botched robbery during a drug deal. Jesse White suffered a fatal gunshot wound in the incident that occurred last Saturday. Police responded to Spalding Regional Hospital after White was dropped off at the emergency room, Fox5Atlanta reported.
White was in the midst of a robbery attempt alongside three other individuals when the gun he brandished discharged, striking him. The specifics of the shooting, such as where it took place and the events leading up to the incident, remain unclear, the investigation is still ongoing. Following the fateful event that led to White's death, three teenagers were arrested, including a 17-year-old, Tavares Ray, and a 19-year-old, Adrion Barkley, as well as a 15-year-old, who, despite his age, is being charged as an adult, as per Fox5Atlanta's coverage of the incident.
Collectively, the charges against the teenagers include reckless conduct, robbery, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. In the case of Ray, his charges are extensive and also encompass drug-related offenses, and as 11Alive notes, tampering with evidence. Details surrounding who transported White to the hospital and whether they are among those charged, have also not been disclosed by the police.
Griffin police have not released the identity of the gun’s owner or said whether the weapon was legally obtained. Authorities also have not clarified the role of the robbery’s intended target, leaving it unclear whether that person is a victim, a witness, or a possible suspect. While arrests have been made, investigators say more charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
