Leceddrick Danielle Mitchell, 41, was killed in a shooting during a New Year’s Eve celebration that carried into the early hours of January 1, 2024, in Jeff Davis County. He was transported to Jeff Davis Hospital, where he died. A father of three and a grandfather, he was born in Douglas, Georgia, and educated in the Telfair and Jeff Davis County school systems; he enjoyed time with family and friends and followed the Dallas Cowboys and the Alabama Crimson Tide.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation was called to lead the homicide inquiry alongside the Hazlehurst Police Department. On January 4, 2024, authorities arrested three people in connection with the shooting: 18-year-old Brad Smith, 25-year-old Keil Smith, and 24-year-old Kaniya Maxwell. All three were charged with murder; Brad Smith and Keil Smith also faced aggravated assault charges, and Kaniya Maxwell was charged with conspiracy to commit a felony.

Anyone who knew Leceddrick, attended that gathering, or has information about the incident is asked to come forward.