GBI makes multiple arrests in Cordele homicide cases

CORDELE, Ga. – On Thursday, September 21st of 2023, officers from the Cordele Police Department responded to the 1000 block of Tulip Avenue around 10 pm after several calls were made to 911 in which residents heard numerous gun shots.

Upon arrival, officers were flagged down by a group of people at a residence where the victim was located. 19-year-old Rondarrius Wedges had sustained multiple gunshots while sitting in a vehicle. Emergency life saving efforts were unsuccessful. The GBI was called to assist with the investigation.

Numerous interviews were conducted by agents and detectives, and search warrants and neighborhood canvases helped identify responsible suspects.

On Thursday, March 28th, 21-year-old Lee Savage III was arrested and charged with felony murder and aggravated assault for the death of Wedges. Savage III was booked into the Crisp County Jail on unrelated charges.

On January 5th, shortly before 1 am in the morning, Cordele Police officers were dispatched to the Hilltop Apartments in the 200 block of West 24th Avenue in reference to a shooting.

Upon arrival, officers located one gunshot victim, identified as 30-year-old Davieon Lavant. EMS arrived and transported Lavant to Crisp Regional for treatment. Lavant unfortunately died from his injuries despite life saving attempts.

The GBI assisted with this investigation and obtained information to establish probable cause for the issuance of multiple warrants.

21-year-old Jayveon Royal was arrested and charged with felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Additionally, 19-year-old Kavien Butler was arrested and charged with party to the crime of both felony murder and aggravated assault.

Anyone with more information on either incident should call the Cordele Police Department at 229-276-2921.

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