James Clarence West, a 73-year-old Black man, was shot and killed in Augusta, Georgia, on December 3, 2024. Deputies responded to the 1500 block of Picquet Avenue near Gordon Street around 11:22 a.m. after reports of gunfire; West was found lying in the street and was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:43 a.m. Authorities described the incident as an active homicide investigation and initially released few details about a shooter.

Investigators later identified 27-year-old Harold Leverett Jr. as a suspect; authorities sought him immediately after the shooting and he was later reported as charged with murder and weapon possession in connection with West’s death. Reports note Leverett had prior convictions related to marijuana sales and firearm possession. West’s sister, Rev. Belinda West-Womack, said she had spoken with her brother twice that morning and was later notified of his killing; she described him as generous and soft-hearted and said she was praying for both her family and the young man accused.

Did anyone in the neighborhood see or hear anything that morning on Picquet Avenue that could help explain what happened?