Release:

On Monday, September 7, 2020, at approximately 3:24 am., Valdosta Patrol Officers responded to Andy’s Wings and Things at 118 West Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, after receiving a 911 call about a subject being shot. When officers arrived on the scene, they assisted in providing first aid to the victim, Lawrence Franklin, who had an apparent gunshot wound to his torso. Emergency Medical Services Personnel arrived on scene and transported Mr. Franklin to South Georgia Medical Center, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Detectives from the Valdosta Police Department Person’s Crimes Unit and Crime Scene Personnel from the Valdosta Lowndes Regional Crime Laboratory responded to the scene and began an investigation.

On Friday, October 23, 2020, after a thorough investigation, detectives obtained arrest warrants for Raynard Reid for felony murder and aggravated assault. Detectives issued a be on the lookout (BOLO) for Reid to local law enforcement agencies.

On Monday, October 26, 2020, deputies with Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office located Reid at his residence in Lowndes County, where he was taken into custody.

Detectives continue to investigate the case and further charges are pending.