Augusta, GA
3 get life in prison for murder of Augusta smoke shop owner
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Three men have been sentenced to life in prison for last year’s murder of an Augusta smoke shop owner.
Antwan Herndon, Terrance Walker and Terry McClennon all entered guilty pleas in early December in the murder of Abdallah Rubeha, 29.
The murder happened during a robbery at the smoke shop, 2303 Lumpkin Road, around 9:30 p.m. Jan. 10, 2025.
PHOTO GALLERY: SUSPECTS IN SMOKE SHOP MURDER
According to the prosecution, the crime unfolded after the three suspects got into a car owned by Walker’s grandmother and drove from Burke County to Richmond County.
McClennon stayed in the car while Herndon and Walker went inside the smoke shop, authorities said.
The prosecution said Walker pointed the gun at Rubeha and asked him if he was “ready to die tonight.”
With the victim unwilling to open the cash register, Walker then shot him in the face “point blank,” according to the prosecution.
The prosecution said Rubeha fell to the floor near the cash register and Herndon then jumped over the counter to get to the register.
The suspects all began traveling back to Burke County, stopping at two gas stations to spend the stolen money, according to prosecutors.
Deputies in Burke County pursued the vehicle in a high-speed chase, which turned into a foot pursuit.
Walker was captured as he was running on foot, while Herndon and McClennon were taken into custody later.
According to court records:
- Walker pleaded guilty to malice murder, armed robbery and three firearm-possession offenses.
- McClennon pleaded guilty to felony murder, armed robbery and two firearm-possession offenses.
- Herndon pleaded guilty to felony murder.
The murder sent shockwaves through south Augusta at the time.
“Just a sweet soul was taken from everybody, and he didn’t deserve it,” said Mia Posey, Rubeha’s friend who owned a business nearby.
Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Families had the chance to sharpen their money skills at a financial literacy event hosted by local nonprofit Crown Her Mentoring at the Bernie Ward Community Center.
The free event offered resources for all ages, from kids learning the basics to adults planning for their financial future.
Attendees could sit in sessions about budgeting, credit, opening banking accounts and insurance options.
Organizers said the event was designed to make financial education accessible during Financial Literacy Month.
“People need to understand the importance of a checking account, a savings account—how to manage your money. How to invest your money. People need to learn about life insurance,” said Torrecka Davis, organizer.
Crown Her Mentoring will host a mental health awareness event on May 23. Open enrollment for new mentees will begin on May 10.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Shoppers in Augusta will soon lose a longtime retail option, as Lane Bryant’s store inside Augusta Mall is set to close for good this weekend.
Employees at Lane Bryant inside Augusta Mall confirmed that the store will permanently close starting Sunday, April 19.
After the closure, the nearest Lane Bryant location for customers will be in Lexington.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
With deepest and heartfelt sympathy, G. L. Brightharp & Sons announces the transition of Mr. Willie J. Tanksley who entered into rest April 18, 2026.
Mr. Tanksley, a native of Richmond County, was a 1985 graduate of the Academy of Richmond County. He was a member of Greater Young Zion Baptist Church where he served in the Brotherhood Ministry.
Survivors include his wife, Sabrina Tanksley; two daughters, Ashley Tanksley and Taylor Tanksley; siblings, Elise Tanksley of Augusta, GA, Wilhelmina Roland of Atlanta, GA, Terry Tanksley, Tommy Tanksley, Watler Tanksley and Elder Claude (Kimberly) Tanksley all of Augusta, GA; an aunt, Frances Tate; an uncle, James Tanksley; mother-in-law, Sandra Harrison of Beech Island, SC; father-in-law, Jimmy (Elnora) Bing; three sisters-in-law, Fonda Rainey, Nicole Harrison and Nina Bing; a brother-in-law, Eric Bing; a host of nieces , nephews, along with other loving relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. William A. Blount officiating. Interment will follow at Walker Memorial Park. Viewing will be held from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Monday at the funeral home.
The family will not be receiving visitors at the home. We ask that you continue to pray for them during this time.
Professional Services are under the compassionate care of G. L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary-North Augusta.
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