In the early morning hours of November 5, 2017, in Augusta, Georgia, a burst of gunfire outside the Heritage Apartments left 25-year-old Frederick Booker with multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to Augusta University Medical Center, where he died of his injuries.

Investigators focused on a suspect, Laron D. Mickens, who was arrested and charged with murder and weapon violations. Mickens’ first trial in February 2019 ended in a mistrial when the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict. A second trial concluded in November 2021 with an acquittal; the defense argued self-defense during the proceedings.

The criminal trials resolved without a conviction in Booker's death, and his family and community continue to deal with the loss and unanswered questions. If anyone has information about Frederick Booker or the events that night, please share what you know with authorities.