LOWNDES — A suspect is in custody after a shooting at J Boys Travel Center left one dead and multiple injured.

Release:

Incident date – 05-03-2026

Time of incident – Approximately 1145 AM

The Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, along with other local law enforcement agencies, responded to reports of an active shooter at J Boys Travel Center, located at 3661 Madison Highway in Valdosta, Georgia.

Upon arrival, deputies located four individuals who had been shot. The suspected shooter was taken into custody without incident. Three victims were transported to South Georgia Medical Center and are currently receiving treatment. A fourth victim succumbed to his injuries.

The suspect has been identified as Jabari Nelms of Valdosta. He is currently being held at the Lowndes County Jail and faces multiple charges, including murder.

The deceased victim has been identified as Damani Bentley of Valdosta, Georgia.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the victims and the suspect were all employees of the business and were working at the time of the incident. Investigators are actively working to determine the circumstances that led to this tragic event.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Lowndes County
Sheriff’s Office at 229-671-2900.