CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. — A wave of heartbreak has swept through the Chatham County community after D’Angelo “Akon” Shaw, a beloved veteran and well-known member of the Little Lucky’s Bar family, was tragically shot and killed just hours after Veterans Day celebrations came to a close.
According to the Chatham County Police Department, officers responded to reports of a shooting just before 2 a.m. Wednesday outside Little Lucky’s Bar on East Gateway Boulevard, near Highway 204. Upon arrival, officers found Shaw suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities have arrested 45-year-old Jeremy Scarth in connection to the shooting. He has been charged with murder and remains in custody. Investigators believe Scarth approached Shaw outside the bar before opening fire, though a motive has not yet been released.
The shocking news has left friends, coworkers, and patrons of Little Lucky’s reeling — struggling to comprehend how a night meant to celebrate veterans ended in such tragedy.
“We were all just laughing and having a good time,” said Kim Eller, a close friend and regular at the bar. “I don’t understand how it went so wrong.”
Shaw, affectionately known as “Akon,” was remembered as a protector, a friend, and a brother to many. Friends described him as the kind of person who would always lend a hand or offer words of encouragement when someone was down.
“He would just help you,” Eller added. “If you were down and out, he’d find a way to lift you up. That’s who he was — loyal, hardworking, and kind.”
Andrew Rawlings, another friend, said he felt “completely lost” upon hearing the news. “He was always smiling, always helping. I still can’t believe it’s real.”
In a touching tribute, Rachaels, a local business that often collaborated with Shaw, shared an emotional message online:
“The Rachaels family is with heavy hearts tonight as we say goodbye to an amazing man — Akon, our friend, our brother, and our protector. We will honor Akon by donating proceeds from some of his favorites to his family. Come by and buy Akon a shot, a beer, or his favorite lemon pepper wings in his honor.”
The community has rallied together in Shaw’s memory, holding gatherings at Little Lucky’s to share stories and pay their respects. Many say his kindness and spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.
“He was one of the good ones,” said a tearful friend. “He didn’t just serve his country — he served his community every single day. He’ll never be forgotten.”
As police continue their investigation, those who loved D’Angelo “Akon” Shaw are left with heavy hearts — mourning the loss of a man who represented loyalty, laughter, and love in its purest form.
💔 Rest in peace, Akon. Your light will forever shine in the hearts of all who knew you.