Savannah man accepts plea deal for 2024 shooting death

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - A Savannah man who shot and killed another man nearly two years ago walked out of a Chatham County courtroom Friday on probation.

William Duffin, 34, pleaded guilty to aggravated assault charges in a negotiated plea. The case stems from the April 2024 shooting death of Tejahn Tatmon, 28.

The charges and plea

Duffin pleaded guilty to four charges: two counts of aggravated assault and two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

Prosecutors described a confrontation between Duffin and Tatmon at a Montgomery Crossroads apartment complex.

“Well, Mr. Tatmon did assault Mr. Duffin, and in the process, he himself was shot and died as a result,” prosecutor Bonnie Jones said.

Judge’s remarks

Superior Court Judge Lisa Colbert addressed the courtroom following the plea.

“I don’t know what it’s going to take for some of these tragedies to not occur,” Colbert said.

“I hope that, Mr. Duffin, you take this opportunity, as you move forward in life, which Mr. Tatmon, unfortunately, will not be able to, for the remembrance of his family members, that you find a way to contribute meaningfully to this community,” Colbert said.

Victim’s family

Tatmon’s mother, who declined to appear on camera, told the court no words can describe the pain of losing her son. She said his death has shattered their family and community.

Sentence and conditions

Duffin was sentenced to 12 years of probation and was released from jail following Friday’s plea. If he violates any conditions, he will serve the remainder of his sentence in prison. Conditions of his probation include mental health counseling and anger management.