The Ultimate Irony: A Veteran Falls as Tributes End

The Celebration Turned Tragedy: A Veteran’s Final Watch

The local community is reeling from a tragedy whose timing is as heartbreaking as the loss itself: the fatal shooting of 34-year-old D’angelo “Akon” Shaw, a respected veteran. D’angelo was shot in the early hours of Wednesday, November 12, 2025, outside Little Lucky’s Bar in the Savannah/Statesboro area, where he was working security as Veterans Day celebrations drew to a close. Friends captured the profound, stinging irony perfectly: “During a celebration for veterans, a veteran was taken from this world.” After bravely serving his country, D’angelo lost his life to violence on American soil, on a day meant to honor his sacrifice. The senseless nature of this homicide has replaced the pride of the holiday with a deep, collective sorrow and shock.

From Adversity to Inspiration: The Legacy of “Akon”

D’angelo Shaw’s life story was a powerful testament to resilience and hope. Known to many as “Akon,” he was not only a dedicated veteran but also a successful corporate club manager at Planet Fitness. His journey, which friends say included overcoming past adversity and homelessness, was previously celebrated as an inspiration to many. D’angelo was the embodiment of hard work and self-improvement, turning his life into a success story through sheer will and dedication. He committed himself to community and purpose, choosing a path of professional service—both in the military and in his civilian life as a manager and working security to earn an honest living. His legacy is one of courage, determination, and the deep, personal impact he had on every room he managed and every life he touched.

A Community Demands Justice: Honoring His Service

The Chatham County Police Department’s swift action led to the arrest of 45-year-old Jeremy Scarth, who has been charged with murder in connection with the shooting. While the suspect is in custody, the pain of the loss remains raw and immediate. The community’s focus must now turn to supporting D’angelo’s family and ensuring that justice is fully served. The most meaningful tribute to this beloved veteran is to honor his service by pursuing peace and accountability in the society he fought to protect. D’angelo “Akon” Shaw’s final, heartbreaking sacrifice on the day meant for his honor will not be forgotten.