An Atlanta performer who goes by the stage name "Jayy Wick" was arrested Tuesday (May 5) in metro Atlanta and now faces an attempted first‑degree murder charge after a late‑night Panama City Beach shooting that left an 18‑year‑old man critically injured on the shoreline. Authorities identified the suspect as 26‑year‑old Donald Anderson after witness interviews and a review of surveillance footage.
Arrest and Charges
Bay County detectives secured an arrest warrant, then set up surveillance before moving in. Deputies say Anderson was taken into custody on May 5 with help from the U.S. Marshals Service, Atlanta Police, Clayton County police and Panama City Beach police, and that a firearm was recovered during the arrest. He is expected to be extradited to Florida to face the attempted first‑degree murder charge, which carries a mandatory minimum of 25 years to life in prison if he is convicted. "We will not tolerate this kind of violent behavior in Bay County," Sheriff Tommy Ford said, according to FOX 5 Atlanta.
Shooting on the Beach
Investigators say the shooting happened around 11 p.m. on Saturday at Beach Access 83, where deputies found an 18‑year‑old man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was later classified as critically injured. Witnesses at the scene identified Anderson as the person who opened fire, and a security guard who was with Anderson's group located the victim and moved him closer to the pavement before deputies arrived, according to WJHG/WCTV.
He Played a Show Afterward
According to deputies, Anderson left the beach after the shooting and later performed on stage at Vibez Night Club in Panama City during a weekend takeover event. FOX 5 Atlanta reports that he was in the area for "229 Takeover Weekend." An event listing for April 25 on BeatstoRapOn shows Jayy Wick billed at Vibez that night.
Next Steps and Context
Detectives say the investigation remains active as they continue interviewing witnesses and building the case ahead of extradition and prosecution. The performer has other dates listed on ticketing platforms, highlighting how an arrest can quickly disrupt a small‑venue touring schedule; his tour page appears on Ticketmaster. Investigators remain in contact with witnesses and partner agencies in both states, according to WJHG/WCTV.
