In a dramatic turn of events, Jaden Lewis, a 21-year-old resident of Milton, Georgia, has been arrested and charged with murder and aggravated assault in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred in downtown Alpharetta late Wednesday night. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community, unfolded just after 11 p.m. on the night of September 12, 2024.
Who is Jaden Lewis?
According to Alpharetta Police, the shooting took place near the intersection of Highway 9 and Milton Avenue, an area known for its vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and its proximity to city landmarks such as Alpharetta City Hall. The victim, identified as 46-year-old Justin Mourning of Alpharetta, was rushed to a local hospital but was pronounced dead early Thursday morning.
The confrontation that led to the shooting reportedly began with a verbal argument between Lewis and Mourning. Details regarding whether the two individuals knew each other remain unclear. Witnesses and evidence suggest that Lewis was the person of interest riding a motorcycle and was seen with a gun drawn before the fatal shots were fired.
The swift response from law enforcement and the community’s cooperation played a crucial role in the rapid arrest of Lewis. “This is a very rare incident for the downtown area of Alpharetta,” noted Alpharetta Police Captain Andrew Splawn. “To be honest with you, Alpharetta as a whole, there is not much crime in the city of Alpharetta, and we see an especially low amount of violent crime.”
A witness, who chose to remain anonymous, provided video footage to 11Alive, showing the moments leading up to the shooting. This footage has been instrumental in the ongoing investigation.
The Alpharetta Department of Public Safety has expressed gratitude to the citizens who came forward with information, which greatly aided in the arrest of Lewis. The department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and is working to piece together the full story behind this tragic event.
As the case progresses, the community remains on edge, reflecting on the unusual nature of the crime and the impact it has had on their typically peaceful surroundings.
