17-year-old Jordan Walden charged for killing Marciano Kirkland in Hephzibah shooting

Hephzibah, GA — A 17-year-old has been charged with murder following a fatal shooting at a shared residence on Hephzibah-McBean Road, where authorities discovered the victim, 34-year-old Marciano Kirkland, dead from gunshot wounds. The suspect, Jordan Walden, was taken into custody on Tuesday and faces charges of murder and possession of a firearm in connection with the incident.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies responded to a 911 call at 3:11 p.m. Tuesday. Upon arrival at the residence located at 1457 Hephzibah-McBean Road, they found Kirkland with critical injuries from at least one gunshot. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene at approximately 4:15 p.m.

According to Coroner Mark Bowen, an autopsy has been scheduled to determine the official cause and manner of Kirkland’s death. The results are expected to shed further light on the tragic event as the investigation progresses.

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has not disclosed any potential motive for the shooting. Sheriff’s Sgt. John Perry indicated that detectives are working to gather additional information about the circumstances surrounding the crime. At this time, it remains unclear what led to the deadly altercation at the shared home.

Authorities continue to interview witnesses and examine evidence from the scene as they seek to understand what may have triggered the incident. As of now, Walden is being held on murder and firearm possession charges, but the ongoing investigation may reveal further details.

The tragic death of Kirkland marks a somber moment for the community, as neighbors and family members await answers. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist in their efforts.

This investigation highlights the importance of community cooperation as officials work to bring justice to those affected. More details will be provided by authorities as they continue their thorough examination of the case.