Four suspects charged in death of 15-year-old in Albany

Four individuals have been charged with murder following the death of 15-year-old Austin Payne, whose body was discovered in an abandoned apartment in Albany, Georgia, on the morning of Nov. 1.

Police identified the suspects as 22-year-old Detravion Parker, 15-year-old Jansquincey Donaldson, 15-year-old Omari Marion, and 16-year-old Adarious Wallace. All four are currently held at the Dougherty County Jail.

The investigation began after Payne’s mother tracked his cellphone to a residence on the 800 block of Cameo Lane. Authorities stated that Payne had contacted his mother at approximately 8:03 p.m. on Oct. 31 to inform her that he had been shot.

Albany Police Chief Michael Persley confirmed during a Nov. 2 news conference that the victim had reached out to his mother shortly after the shooting occurred. Investigators believe the incident was an attempted robbery. According to reports, armed individuals approached a group walking with Payne, demanded their belongings, and opened fire. Officials suspect the victim was targeted for a handgun he had previously displayed on social media.

The Albany Police Department is continuing its investigation into the shooting. Authorities have asked anyone with information regarding the case to contact the department at 229-431-2100.