Austin Payne, a 15-year-old Georgia boy, was found shot to death inside an abandoned home in Albany after he failed to return home on Halloween night. His mother reportedly used cellphone location information to find him. Police have charged three teenagers and a 22-year-old man with murder in connection with the case. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, cellphone records and witness statements to establish how the shooting unfolded.
| 1) | Discovery at an abandoned Albany residence |
| 2) | Four suspects face murder charges |
| 3) | Investigators reconstruct the shooting |
| 4) | Possible robbery motive under review |
| 5) | Family seeks support as investigation continues |
Discovery at an abandoned Albany residence
Albany police officers responded on Nov. 1 to the 800 block of Cameo Lane after Austin Payne was reported missing following Halloween night. Police said they found the teenager dead inside an abandoned residence. His mother reportedly tracked his cellphone location after he did not come home, leading her to the property where she discovered him.
Police Chief Michael Persley said Payne had contacted his mother after he was shot. The circumstances of the call and the timing of the shooting remain part of the investigation.
Four suspects face murder charges
The Albany Police Department arrested 22-year-old Detravion Parker, two 15-year-olds and a 16-year-old in connection with Payne’s death. All four were charged with murder and transported to the Dougherty County Jail, according to police.
The charges identify the suspects accused in the case, but the available information does not establish the outcome of any court proceedings. The three teenage suspects are minors, and authorities have not publicly provided additional identifying details about them.
Investigators reconstruct the shooting
Investigators are examining surveillance video, cellphone records and witness statements to determine what happened before Payne was killed. Witnesses told investigators that armed individuals approached a group walking with Payne, demanded their belongings and opened fire.
During a Nov. 2 news conference, Michael Persley described the reported contact between Payne and his mother.
He did make a call to his mother that he had been shot.
Police have not publicly detailed the sequence of events after that call or explained how Payne came to be inside the abandoned home.
Possible robbery motive under review
Investigators are examining whether Payne was targeted during an attempted robbery. Information provided to investigators indicated that he may have recently displayed a handgun on social media, a detail being considered as authorities assess a possible motive.
The robbery account and any connection to the firearm remain investigative matters. Police have not announced a final motive or described the specific evidence that led to the charges.
Family seeks support as investigation continues
Payne’s family has started a fundraiser to help cover funeral expenses. A relative said he would have turned 16 on Nov. 12 and wrote that the family was trying to process the loss. Payne is survived by his mother and his 17-year-old sister.
Albany police are asking anyone with additional information about the shooting to contact investigators at 229-431-2100. Community members who witnessed events near Cameo Lane or have relevant video or records may assist the inquiry.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Austin Payne was found shot dead on Nov. 1 inside an abandoned Albany residence. |
| 2 | Three teenagers and 22-year-old Detravion Parker were charged with murder. |
| 3 | Police are reviewing video, cellphone records and witness accounts. |
| 4 | Authorities are investigating a possible attempted robbery motive. |
Summary
The investigation into Austin Payne’s death has resulted in murder charges against four people, including three teenagers. Police are continuing to reconstruct the events surrounding the Halloween-night shooting and are asking the public for information. The possible robbery motive has not been confirmed, and the case remains under investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was killed?
Austin Payne, a 15-year-old from Albany, Georgia, was found shot to death inside an abandoned residence.
Who has been charged?
Police charged 22-year-old Detravion Parker, two 15-year-olds and a 16-year-old with murder.
When and where was Payne found?
Officers found him on Nov. 1 inside an abandoned home in the 800 block of Cameo Lane in Albany.
How can witnesses help?
Anyone with additional information can contact Albany police investigators at 229-431-2100.
