Tragic Discovery of Decomposed Remains in Augusta

News Summary

Authorities in south Augusta have identified decomposed remains found behind a home as belonging to 32-year-old Devon Laroyce Shade. This discovery, made in the wake of a broader investigation into funeral home abuse, has shocked the community. The investigation has unveiled a disturbing number of neglect cases involving deceased bodies at a local funeral home operated by Chris Johnson, who faces 21 charges. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is involved, seeking to provide closure to affected families amidst ongoing concerns over community safety.

Tragic Discovery in Augusta: Authorities Identify Decomposed Remains

In a sad turn of events, authorities in south Augusta have identified the decomposed remains found on April 17 as belonging to Devon Laroyce Shade, a 32-year-old man. The remains were discovered behind a home in a rural area, specifically in the 2100 block of McNutt Road. It’s been noted that the body was likely lying in the woods for “several days,” adding a layer of tragedy to this already devastating case.

Investigation Expands Amidst Funeral Home Abuse Case

This heartbreaking discovery comes in the wake of a much broader investigation into potential abuse and neglect at a local funeral home. The owner, Chris Johnson, who operates a funeral home in Douglas, has found himself facing an increasing list of legal troubles. Initially, Johnson was charged with 17 counts related to the abuse of deceased bodies. However, recent developments have added four more charges to his plate, bringing the total to 21 charges. These additional counts include three instances of violating vital records registration and another for theft by taking.

Families across the region are reeling as the investigation continues to unfold. The authorities have confirmed that the loved ones of some of the 12 decomposing bodies unearthed at Johnson’s funeral home have now been identified. The grim find was made last October when a staggering 18 decomposed bodies were revealed within the Coffee County facility operating under Johnson’s management. As if that weren’t enough, two pets—a dog and a cat—were also discovered in a state of decomposition at the same location.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation Gets Involved

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is fully engaged in this case, working diligently to identify six additional remains found at the funeral home. The GBI Crime Lab is even evaluating cremated ashes that were handed over, with the aim of determining whether these ashes contain human remains. This part of the investigation involves verifying cremation information to ensure the ashes were returned to the correct families, a necessary step in bringing closure to those affected.

A Multi-Agency Investigation Unfolds

As alarming new details come to light, the scope of the investigation is broadening. A multi-agency investigation has been launched due to the shocking discovery of cremated ashes and personal information that was carelessly scattered throughout an abandoned funeral home. As the GBI delves deeper, they have indicated that once their thorough investigation is complete, the findings will be forwarded to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution. This is a promising step for the families waiting for justice in light of these heart-wrenching events.

Community Responses and Concerns

The news has understandably shaken the local community. Many residents are left feeling vulnerable, as they grapple with the idea that such tragic neglect could happen in a place meant to provide peace and dignity during some of life’s toughest moments. Hope remains that the ongoing investigations will provide sufficient clarity and justice for the families suffering from this tragic ordeal.

Moving Forward

As the situation further unfolds, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office recently responded to another distressing call on January 23, 2025, regarding a deceased body discovered in a wooded area on the 1200 block of Interstate Pkwy. This highlights an urgent need for swift action to address these deeply concerning incidents. For now, many will be watching closely as the details of the investigation continue to emerge, with the hope that justice will prevail.

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Additional Resources

• Augusta Chronicle
• MSN News
• WRDW
• WFXG
• USA Today
• Wikipedia: Funeral
• Google Search: funeral home abuse Georgia