“His blood is crying out from the ground”: Family reacts to 2 arrests in loved ones’ shooting death in Statesboro

BULLOCH COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - “Just to be, all of a sudden, going out, think you’re having fun, and get gunned down in the street by a bunch of thugs, that was awful. I would wish that on no one, no one.”

Those are the words from a heartbroken and angry aunt. Retired nurse, Lisa Moore has been a strong advocate for her family since her nephew Tre’s recent murder.

Their family in Portal is breathing a partial sigh of relief now after the arrest of two men in their loved ones’ murder.

The shooting happened off the edge of Georgia Southern’s campus in October—and the community’s been waiting for answers ever since.

“His blood is crying out from the ground, for justice. I loved him like he was my son, and I will pursue this,” said the victim’s aunt, Lisa Moore.

We first introduced you to Lisa Moore a year and a half ago as she battled a rare autoimmune disorder... But this nurse of the year isn’t just battling a disease with no known cure--- she’s been fighting for justice after her nephew was murdered in cold blood.

“You know I’m sick... I’m not sure, it’s up to the Lord whether I’ll be here when the trial comes. But if not, I already have my impact statement written,” said Moore.

30-year-old Deontre Mincey was an innocent bystander when he was shot outside near a parking lot.

A fight at the Parker’s gas station spilled over across the street into a nearby parking lot. You can find our previous coverage here.

It was all caught on surveillance camera too.

Two men were both charged with his murder: Timothy Ward and Khalir Nickens. They were just recently arrested.

Knickens turned himself in after Ward was found and captured.

“I can’t begin to tell you, it has been such a relief worrying and just the whole situation has been awful,” said Moore.

She says she’s grateful for the support their family has received following Tre’s death, and all those who played a role in these arrests.

“Losing my 30-year-old young nephew, a father of four, to be gunned down in the street like he was, shot in the back of the head, running away from gunfire, having nothing to do with what was going on. All the violence that’s here, it’s just so sad, it’s just devastating, it’s beyond belief,” said Moore.

This isn’t the first tragedy to happen in this plaza. Our previous reporting reveals Statesboro Police can recall three deadly shootings tied to this area just off-hand.

Nickens and Ward are in the Bulloch County jail, being held without bond.

WTOC previously covered a vigil held for Mincey by the family. Other community members also came out in support.

Statesboro Police said today they didn’t have any additional comment, and the case is pending further court proceedings.

We will follow these cases as they make their way through the court system.