Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. North Augusta murder suspect apprehended
2. Second suspect arrested in connection with North Augusta homicide
Stephon Xzavier Dunbar, 23, has surrendered to authorities in connection with the murder of a father just outside North Augusta, South Carolina. He faces charges of murder, attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime. The victim, Tavaris Burley, was found dead next to a car. Dunbar, who was out on bail for a previous incident, has a history of violence. The incident is part of a surge in violent crime in the CSRA region, with over 150 deaths since mid-April 2022. Authorities attribute much of the violence to gang activity, impacting communities on both sides of the Savannah River.
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NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) – The recent incident that shook the quiet town of North Augusta has taken a new turn as the second suspect in connection to the murder of a father just outside the city has turned himself in. Stephon Xzavier Dunbar, 23, surrendered to authorities on Tuesday around 1:30 p.m. and was subsequently taken to the Aiken County Detention Center where he faced charges of murder, attempted murder, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime.
Details of the Surrender
Stephon Xzavier Dunbar’s surrender came after the first suspect, Shirlette Hayes, 29, turned herself in on April 4. She voluntarily presented herself to deputies on Wednesday night around 9:30 p.m. and was also taken to the Aiken County Detention Center where she faced similar charges. The victim of the shooting, identified as 32-year-old Tavaris Burley, was described by neighbors as a kind-hearted man and a dedicated father.
Location of the Tragic Incident
The tragic incident unfolded outside a residence on Old Aiken Road in North Augusta. Aiken County deputies responded to the scene around 5:30 p.m. where they found Burley lying face-down next to a car. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead on the scene by the Aiken County Coroner’s Office. A witness reported seeing Dunbar exit the residence and open fire on the victim before fleeing with a female companion.
Previous Incidents Involving Dunbar
This is not the first time Stephon Xzavier Dunbar has been suspected of involvement in a shooting. Prior to this incident, he was out on bail following charges from a March 9, 2023, incident at Liberty Hill Road and Vidot Court, just a short distance from the scene of the recent shooting. In that previous case, Dunbar was arrested on charges of attempted murder, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, trespassing, and malicious injury to animals or property.
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Community Impact
The recent surge in violent crime across the CSRA has left a significant impact on communities large and small on both sides of the Savannah River. Since mid-April 2022, more than 150 individuals have lost their lives to acts of violence in the region, with authorities attributing much of the problem to gang-related activities. The victims and suspects involved in these incidents have predominantly been young men, highlighting the need for increased community vigilance and law enforcement efforts.
Conclusion
The recent developments in the case of Stephon Xzavier Dunbar and Shirlette Hayes underscore the ongoing challenges faced by communities in the face of rising violent crime. As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, it is essential for residents to remain vigilant and work together towards creating safer environments for all.
Hallie Turner, Audrey Dickherber and Lois White contributed to this report.