With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, the Augusta community is mourning a heartbreaking tragedy after 10-year-old Deangelo Roberson passed away Friday at 11:46 a.m. at Wellstar MCG Health, according to Coroner Mark Bowen.
The tragedy stems from a shooting that occurred Tuesday outside a Gordon Highway convenience store, where Deangelo was critically injured while inside a parked vehicle.
Authorities say the child was shot in the head after a firearm discharged inside the vehicle. Investigators report that Deangelo’s mother, 27-year-old Deasia Lexis Williams, left her three children—ages 10, 9, and 4—unattended in the car while she went inside the store.
During that time, officials say the 4-year-old child accessed a firearm that had been left in Williams’ purse. The weapon discharged inside the vehicle, striking Deangelo and causing life-threatening injuries.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and transported him to the hospital, where he remained in critical condition for several days before he passed away Friday morning.
Williams has been charged with three counts of cruelty to children in the second degree, one for each child left in the vehicle. Authorities say the charges stem from allegedly leaving the children in a situation where a firearm was accessible. She remains in custody at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center as the investigation continues.
The tragedy has left Augusta in shock and mourning, as family, friends, and residents struggle to process the devastating loss of a young life. Those who knew Deangelo are remembering him with deep sorrow as the community grapples with the pain of an unthinkable incident.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as they continue to review all circumstances surrounding the shooting.
As Augusta grieves, Deangelo Roberson’s passing has left a lasting impact on the community, with loved ones coming together in sorrow and remembrance during this heartbreaking time.
