CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. — The Chatham County community is mourning the tragic loss of D’Angelo “Akon” Shaw, a beloved veteran and cherished member of the Little Lucky’s Bar family, who was shot and killed just hours after Veterans Day celebrations came to an end. What began as a night of laughter and remembrance turned into heartbreak, leaving friends, family, and patrons in disbelief.
According to the Chatham County Police Department, officers were called to Little Lucky’s Bar on East Gateway Boulevard, near Highway 204, shortly before 2 a.m. Wednesday after reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found Shaw suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have since arrested 45-year-old Jeremy Scarth, charging him with murder. Investigators believe Scarth approached Shaw outside the bar before opening fire, though the motive remains unclear.
The devastating news has left the community reeling. For many, Shaw was more than a familiar face — he was a source of comfort and laughter. “We were all just laughing and having a good time,” said Kim Eller, a close friend and regular at Little Lucky’s. “I don’t understand how it went so wrong.” Friends described Shaw as loyal, hardworking, and full of life, the kind of man who would go out of his way to help others without hesitation.
Those who knew him best say Shaw embodied the spirit of service — both in his military life and in the way he cared for those around him. “If you were down and out, he’d find a way to lift you up,” Eller said. Another friend, Andrew Rawlings, shared how deeply Shaw’s passing has affected him. “He was always smiling, always helping. I still can’t believe he’s gone,” he said.
Local businesses and patrons have united to honor Shaw’s memory. Rachaels, a nearby restaurant that often worked with him, posted an emotional tribute: “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 him 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.”
As the community grieves, gatherings continue at Little Lucky’s Bar, where candles, photos, and heartfelt messages fill the space he once brightened. D’Angelo “Akon” Shaw will be remembered as more than a veteran — he was a friend, a protector, and a man whose loyalty and kindness touched countless lives. His legacy of laughter, compassion, and service will never fade.
