On the evening of December 7, 2025, John Bennett, 60, was shot and killed inside a home on the 3400 block of Lucie Street in Augusta. Deputies from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office responded after a reported shooting around 6:45 p.m.; the Coroner’s Office pronounced Bennett deceased at the scene.

Investigators quickly focused on a family member. Bennett’s 40-year-old stepson, Kenneth Murray Jr., was identified as the suspect, located, and taken into custody by the Road Patrol Division at 9:56 p.m. in the 2200 block of Rosier Road. Murray has been charged with murder in connection with the shooting. Records noted a prior conviction for sexual battery in July 2024.

Obituary information lists John Garry Bennett as the decedent and names Kenneth Murray Jr. as one of his stepsons. Bennett was remembered for enjoying eating, swimming, fishing, and time with family. Does anyone who knew the family or witnessed the incident have information that could help clarify what happened that night?