DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ga. — Authorities in Douglas County are continuing to investigate a deadly bar shooting that left one man dead and three others injured, as friends of the victim remember him as someone working to rebuild his life before the violence unfolded.
The shooting occurred in the early morning hours of Jan. 10, 2026, at Marlene’s Bar in Austell, where deputies were called around 2:45 a.m. following reports of gunfire, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
Four Shot, One Killed
When deputies arrived, they found four people suffering from gunshot wounds, all of whom were transported to local hospitals. One victim, later identified as Jack DeWayne Shanks Jr., died from his injuries.
Investigators said the shooting followed multiple disturbances inside the bar involving two men, escalating into gunfire that left several people wounded.
Arrest Made, Charges Filed
Authorities have arrested Chauncey DeShawn Martin, who faces multiple charges including:
- Felony murder
- Four counts of aggravated assault
- Firearm-related offenses and evidence tampering
Officials say the investigation remains active as detectives continue to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
Victim Remembered as “Turning His Life Around”
In the days following the incident, friends and family of Shanks described him as someone who had been working to improve his life before the shooting.
“He was waiting on his second paycheck,” one friend told local media, reflecting on efforts to move forward and build stability.
Those close to Shanks said he was a loyal friend and someone trying to make positive changes, adding another layer of heartbreak to the case.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not released a full account of what triggered the initial altercation or the precise sequence of events that led to gunfire. Investigators have indicated the possibility that multiple individuals may have been involved, though details remain under review.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with additional information to come forward as the case continues.
Community Impact
The shooting has raised concerns about late-night safety at local establishments and underscores the broader challenges communities face in preventing violent incidents.
For many in Douglas County, the tragedy is compounded by the loss of a man described by friends as trying to change his path — a reminder of how quickly lives can be altered.
