AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The city of Augusta is hosting an Independence Day event to celebrate America’s 250th birthday and the city’s 290th birthday.

Augusta is partnering with North Augusta for the event, telling the communities to meet at the river.

There will be food, music, crafts and more. Attendees are asked to bring their own lawn chairs.

The event starts at 5 p.m. with fireworks going off at 9:30 p.m. on July 4.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – An Augusta man has been sentenced to nearly 6 years in federal prison on an illegal firearm charge, according to the United States Department of Justice on Wednesday.

Chauncey Lavon Feby, 20, was sentenced to 71 months in prison and a $1,500 fine, followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to Illegal Possession of a Machinegun.

In November 2024 in Richmond County, Feby was reportedly found with a Glock Model 45, 9 mm pistol which had been modified with an auto sear, converting the pistol into a fully automatic machinegun.

“We will continue to support our law enforcement partners in their efforts to remove these dangerous weapons from the streets and to keep our communities safe,” said U.S. Attorney Margaret Heap. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to hold accountable those that unlawfully possess these lethal weapons.”

UPDATE: June 17, 3:41 p.m. – According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the roadway has been reopened.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – A portion of Gordon Highway has been closed Wednesday after a body was found in a nearby pond.

Richmond County Investigators say the 1200 block of eastbound Gordon Highway at Doug Barnard Parkway is closed, and that drivers should seek an alternate route.

The Augusta Fire Department, Coroner’s Office and Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division have responded to the scene.

According to Coroner Mark Bowen, a positive ID will have to be made due to the condition of the body. An autopsy has been scheduled.

No further information has been released.