Suspect arreested in pair of separate Augusta shootings

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – A 28-year-old man wanted in connection to two separate shootings this month has been arrested.

One of the shootings occurred on Dec. 26 and the other on Dec. 4, officials say.

The suspect, identified as Dennis Berrien, was already wanted for aggravated assault in connection with the shooting on Dec. 4 and is now also charged in the Dec. 26 incident, after which he was arrested.

On Dec. 4, deputies received reports that Berrien had been involved in an argument with his girlfriend, according to the sheriff’s office.

During the altercation, Berrien reportedly fired at least three shots in her direction before fleeing the scene. He left behind a damaged vehicle belonging to his girlfriend’s grandmother, deputies say.

On Dec. 26, investigators determined Berrien shot another person, critically injuring him, near the 2300 block of Winston Way, according to authorities.

Deputies and investigators say they quickly established a perimeter and began the initial investigation. Witnesses described the suspect, and with the help of K9 units, drones and surveillance cameras of nearby businesses, they were able to track Berrien.

Deputies located Berrien at the AM PM gas station as he exited the restroom, wearing clothing consistent with the witness description.

During the encounter, Berrien provided a false name and date of birth to an investigator, after which a corporal used a fingerprint scanner, which confirmed Berrien’s true identity, officials say. He was taken into custody without incident.

In the previous year to date of Dec. 26, the sheriff’s office reports 176 aggravated assaults with a gun compared to 269 at this time last year, a 35% decrease.

Additionally, the sheriff’s office reports 32 homicides this year compared to 49 last year to date, also a 35% decrease.

They say having more boots on the ground, combined with high visibility and technology, has been a huge asset in the past year.

“This arrest highlights the strength of our coordinated response and the professionalism of our deputies. From patrol to investigators, K9 handlers, and the use of technology like drones and fingerprint scanners, our team worked seamlessly to take a dangerous individual into custody without further harm to the public,” Sheriff Eugene Brantley said.

Berrien is currently in custody and faces two aggravated assault, criminal trespass, and possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of a crime charges. There may be more charges as the investigations continue.

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