Antoine Stokes Obituary, Death – Authorities in Richmond County have released new details about a deadly shooting at a Waffle House that left one man dead and sparked an ongoing search for a murder suspect. Investigators confirmed the identity of the victim and announced the arrest of one individual connected to the crime, while urging the public to help locate the second suspect.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office reported that the shooting occurred on Wednesday, August 20, at the Waffle House located on Talbot Drive near Tobacco Road. Deputies responded to the scene following reports of gunfire and discovered that 23-year-old Antoine Stokes of Martinez had been shot. Emergency responders rushed Stokes to a local hospital, but despite efforts to save him, his condition deteriorated. Coroner Mark Bowen later confirmed that Stokes succumbed to his injuries on Thursday afternoon, just before 4 p.m. He had been struck at least once by gunfire. An autopsy has been scheduled to provide further details on the cause of death.
In the aftermath of the shooting, investigators quickly identified two suspects. On Thursday, deputies arrested 23-year-old Layla Bennett, charging her with aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Bennett is currently being held as the investigation continues.
The second suspect, 26-year-old Jalen Thomas, remains at large and is wanted for murder in connection with Stokes’ death. Law enforcement officials have issued active warrants for his arrest and warn that he should be considered armed and dangerous. According to investigators, Thomas is known to frequent the Tobacco Road area as well as the Robert C. Daniel Jr. Parkway, which are now areas of heightened surveillance as the manhunt continues.
Officials have stressed the importance of community assistance in locating Thomas. They encourage anyone with information to contact Investigator Courtland Harris directly at 706-821-1455. Alternatively, individuals can reach out to investigators at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office by calling 706-821-1020 or 706-821-1080. Authorities emphasize that all tips will be taken seriously, and those who come forward can help prevent further violence.
The deadly shooting has rattled the local community, where the Waffle House is a popular gathering spot. Incidents of gun violence at such public venues raise significant safety concerns, with residents expressing fear and frustration over the prevalence of firearms in neighborhood disputes. For now, the sheriff’s office is working diligently to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and piece together the events that led to the fatal confrontation.
As the investigation moves forward, the focus remains on securing justice for Antoine Stokes and ensuring public safety. While Bennett faces serious charges, law enforcement’s priority is to apprehend Jalen Thomas and bring closure to the victim’s family. Community members are being urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings or knowledge of Thomas’s whereabouts immediately.
