Deputies responded to the Smoke Shop at 2303 Lumpkin Road around 9:30 p.m. on Friday after receiving reports of a gunshot victim. Upon their arrival, authorities found an employee, 29-year-old Abdallah Abu Rubeha of Augusta, suffering from a gunshot wound.
Despite attempts to stabilize the victim, paramedics rushed him to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead at 7:35 a.m. on Saturday. Rubeha, originally from Amman, Jordan, was mourned by family and friends, with heartfelt tributes shared on social media.
Within hours of the incident, investigators issued an alert for three suspects and their vehicle. Tracing the vehicle’s registered owner to Waynesboro, deputies learned that the Burke County Sheriff’s Office had already been involved in a pursuit linked to the case. The chase ended in a foot pursuit, during which one of the suspects was apprehended. Authorities recovered a handgun believed to be used in the crime and stolen items related to the robbery.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) issued warrants for 22-year-old Terrance Remon Walker on charges of felony aggravated assault, felony armed robbery, and weapon possession. Additional charges are expected for Walker and two other suspects, as the victim has since died.
This robbery marks Richmond County’s third homicide of the year, with two other cases occurring earlier in the week. The suspects in those cases have been arrested.
Sheriff Gino Brantley commended the swift actions of his deputies and the collaborative efforts with partner agencies, particularly the Burke County Sheriff’s Office. “This arrest was made possible by strong teamwork across jurisdictions, which is essential in keeping our community safe,” Brantley said.
He also noted the importance of regional cooperation in maintaining safety across the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), with the support of neighboring counties like Columbia, Burke, and Aiken.
The sheriff offered condolences to the victim’s family, reinforcing the RCSO’s commitment to justice. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time,” Brantley stated.
Burke County Sheriff Alfonzo Williams also praised the joint investigation, emphasizing the collaboration between law enforcement agencies. “Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we will continue to pursue those responsible for these heinous acts,” Williams said.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and pursuing the remaining suspects involved in the crime.
