Star Georgia High School Football Player Charged with the Murder of His Teammate

Football

Football Star Georgia High School Football Player Charged with the Murder of His Teammate
Star Georgia High School Football Player Charged with the Murder of His Teammate

A Georgia high school football standout has been charged in connection with the 2023 killing of his own teammate—just days after leading his team in a state championship game.

Qua’vion Jakwon Cooper, 17, of Manchester, has been arrested and charged with murder as a party to the crime in the death of 17-year-old Brandon Smith, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).

Authorities say Cooper assisted 19-year-old A’darious Jashawn Williams, who is accused of fatally shooting Smith following an argument on December 7, 2023.

Tragically, Smith’s body was discovered on the morning of December 10 near a home on Third Avenue in Manchester—just one day before Manchester High School played in the state championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Despite the devastating loss, Cooper reportedly led the team in both rushing and tackles during the title matchup.

Brandon Smith was remembered by the community as a dedicated athlete and cherished member of the Manchester High football program.

Cooper has been booked into the Meriwether County Jail as the investigation continues.

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