🌱 Suspect Wanted In Budgetel Shooting + Piedmont Augusta Expands

Good morning, friends. I’m here with your Thursday edition of the Augusta Patch newsletter. Keep reading to find out all the most important things happening locally.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Times of clouds and sun. High: 83 Low: 67.
• Friday: Pleasant with clouds and sun. High: 83 Low: 68.

Here are the top three stories today in Augusta:

1. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a suspect in the downtown Augusta Budgetel shooting on May 1. The suspect, 21-year-old Brian Mann, is said to frequent hotels along Gordon Highway; he is also reported to have associates in and around Sibley Road. Anyone with information on Mann’s whereabouts is asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 706-821-1020 or 706-821-1034. (WRDW)
2. Piedmont Augusta is set to open a new branch in nearby Appling on Wednesday, beginning with a 3:00 p.m. ribbon cutting. In 2021, officials announced a $6 million commitment to build the occupational health and prompt-care center. Piedmont Augusta, formerly known as University Health Care System, aims to provide affordable and high-quality health care services. (WFXG)
3. An Augusta student is representing the city in the 95th Annual Scripps National Spelling Bee in Maryland. Sai Lakkimsetti, who hails from Stallings Island Middle School, secured a spot in the national competition after emerging victorious in the Georgia state bee held in mid-March. Lakkimsetti previously qualified for the prestigious event once before, when he was in the third grade. (WRDW)

🏘️ Looking to differentiate yourself from other real estate agents in Augusta? Partner with the Augusta Patch and gain access to a targeted, engaged audience through our premium newsletter sponsorships. Click here to learn more.

Today and tomorrow in Augusta:

• Live Music With Jay Johnson Duo At Top Dawg Tavern (4:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Want to help local seniors stay cool for the summer? Now through Jun. 16, the Richmond County Marshal’s Office will be collecting new boxed fans for distribution. Donations can be left at the Marshal’s Office on Deans Bridge Road, or at the Augusta Municipal Building on Telfair Street. (WFXG)
• The Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System has officially kicked off its annual Summer Reading Program as of today, Jun. 1. This year’s programming will include both in-person events and virtual offerings, with a full event schedule available here. (WFXG)
• DiVino Ristorante Italiano, a longstanding staple of North Augusta, announced its permanent closure via social media. As of the time of publication, it is unknown what will fill the space of the former eatery. (Charleston Post Courier)

You’re all caught up for today! See you all soon for another update.

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.