Three men have been charged with murder in the shooting death of an Augusta man this week, which followed a complicated series of events, authorities said.
Marcellus Nipple, 24, (from left), Antonio Rivers, 26, and Brandon L. Jackson, were each charged with felony murder and aggravated assault in the death of 34-year-old Carlton Nipple and aggravated assault. Marcellus Nipple was also charged with firearm possession and firearm possession by a convicted felon.
The murder followed a long night involving fie men, including the victim, three suspects and Sidney Carter III, authorities said. Here is how sheriff’s Lt. Allan Rollins explained the events of Wednesday night:
“Carlton Deon Nipple and Sidney Carter III had been involved in a dispute regarding a female that both had children with. A short time prior to the incident occurring, Marcellus Nipple and Brandon Jackson purchased the firearm later possessed by Carlton Nipple and fired by Marcellus Nipple. Carlton Nipple showed up to Sidney Carter’s residence along with Marcellus L. Nipple, Antonio B. Rivers and Brandon L. Jackson armed with a handgun and wanting to fight with Sidney Carter shortly after 3 p.m.
“During a verbal exchange, Carlton Nipple displayed a handgun and was shot by Sidney Carter. After the shooting Sidney Carter fled on foot and was chased by Marcellus Nipple who began shooting at Sidney Carter. Marcellus Nipple, Brandon Jackson, and Antonio Rivers then placed Carlton Nipple into their vehicle and transported him to the GRU Emergency Room for medical treatment.
“After dropping Carlton Nipple, Marcellus Nipple, and Brandon Jackson off at GRU ER, Antonio Rivers left the area and disposed of the handgun and vehicle before being located on East Boundary.”
Jail records show the three suspects were arrested early Thursday.
“Initially, Investigators held Sidney Carter pending the completion of the investigation but at this time have ruled that Sidney Carter acted in self-defense,” Lt. Rollins said “No charges will be brought against Sidney Carter at this time for this incident.”
