An Augusta man has been arrested and charged in connection with a tragic hit-and-run that claimed the life of 23-year-old Xavion Wimberly early Sunday morning outside Suz Lounge on Deans Bridge Road.
Daveyon Williams, also 23, was taken into custody and charged with felony homicide by vehicle, felony leaving the scene of an accident, and DUI – any combination of alcohol, drugs or toxic vapor – less safe. As of Monday, he is being held without bond at the Charles B. Webster Detention Center.
Authorities say the fatal incident occurred around 3 a.m. Sunday, when Wimberly was struck by a southbound vehicle while crossing the 3200 block of Deans Bridge Road. According to Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen, Wimberly, a Hephzibah resident, was pronounced dead at the scene at 4:12 a.m. despite efforts to revive him.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office quickly began investigating and released a description of a dark-colored sedan believed to be involved. Investigators later located a 2016 Hyundai Sonata with front-end damage at a storage facility on the 3100 block of Spring Grove Road. The vehicle was linked to Williams, who was subsequently arrested. Authorities confirmed the car’s damage was consistent with the collision that killed Wimberly.
Williams does not appear to have any prior criminal record in Richmond County, according to an online search.
The loss of Wimberly has sent shockwaves through the Augusta community, prompting an outpouring of grief, condolences, and frustration. Alongside mourning his death, some have expressed outrage over reports that Wimberly may have been robbed as he lay dying — claims that are currently under investigation.
Burke County Sheriff Alfonzo Williams released a statement expressing sorrow and solidarity with Wimberly’s loved ones.
“The Burke County Sheriff’s Office and the Williams Family mourn the loss of Xavion Wimberly, a young man who had so much life ahead of him,” the sheriff wrote. “At just 23 years old, Xavion’s potential and dreams have been abruptly taken from us, leaving a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.”
He described Wimberly as “respectful, humble, kind, and genuine,” and encouraged the community to support one another through the grief.
“Your grief is shared by many,” he added. “Together, we can heal and remember the light that Xavion brought into this world.”
An autopsy has been scheduled, and the investigation remains ongoing.
