Brothers convicted of shooting victim in 2021 Augusta attack

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Two alleged gang have been convicted of shooting a man in the head in May 2021.

Brothers Nasyr Barnes, 18, of Augusta, and Nigel Scott, 24, of North Augusta, set up victims Chris Jones, 22, of Texas, and Taniya Logan, 20, of Augusta, according to District Attorney Jared Williams.

On May 2, 2021, Jones had just gotten off work at Wendy’s and was giving Logan a ride home. Evidence from social media showed the defendants asked the victim to pick them up. They stated they would give Jones a firearm if he gave them a ride, according to Williams.

With Jones in the driver’s seat and Logan in the front, the defendants got in the backseat, according to prosecutors.

Evidence conflicted on which defendant was the shooter, though it is believed Jones was shot five times from the backseat, striking him multiple times in the head and body, according to Williams.

Jones suffered life-threatening injuries but miraculously survived, according to prosecutors. Logan was injured when she jumped out of the moving vehicle. The car crashed into a church property and the defendants fled.

The defendants’ trial was March 4-8.

Scott pleaded guilty mid-trial, ultimately testifying against his brother and claiming Barnes was the shooter.

“It’s sad; it’s a tragedy to see kids caught up in gang violence at such a young age,” Chief Assistant District Attorney Kevin Davis told the jury in closing arguments. “But we aren’t here to decide on sympathy. We’re here to hold them able for their actions and put an end to their violence.”

Davis was assisted at trial by Assistant District Attorney Tracell Peace Nichols, Victim Advocate Katelynn Chason, and DA Investigator Jason Reeves. Investigator Courtland Harris of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office worked in uncovering evidence and developing a strong case, according to Williams.

“I am proud of the work of the Violent Crimes and Gang Unit in demonstrating our no-nonsense approach to gun violence and gang violence,” the DA said.

Each defendant still faces sentencing for two counts of aggravated assault, one count aggravated battery and three counts of possession of a firearm during commission of a felony.

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