SUMMERVILLE, GA — Tragedy Strikes on Oak Street: 27-Year-Old Christopher “DJ” Chapman Fatally Shot; Suspect Deoveon Price in Custody
A peaceful Friday afternoon in the city of Summerville, Georgia, was shattered by the sound of gunfire, as a violent encounter escalated into a deadly shooting that claimed the life of a beloved local man. The incident occurred on June 6, 2025, around 12:36 p.m., sending shockwaves throughout the community and prompting an immediate and heavy police response.
The Summerville Police Department responded to a distress call reporting a gunshot victim in the 100 block of Oak Street, a typically quiet residential neighborhood. When officers arrived, they found 27-year-old Christopher “DJ” Chapman suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel were quickly dispatched to the scene, but despite their best efforts, Chapman was pronounced dead shortly after.
Chapman, known affectionately as “DJ” by friends and family, was a familiar face in Summerville—a young man with deep community roots and a reputation for kindness and loyalty. His sudden and violent death has left his loved ones devastated and the neighborhood in mourning.
Following a swift investigation aided by witness statements, surveillance footage, and cooperation with neighboring law enforcement agencies, authorities arrested 24-year-old Deoveon Price in connection with the shooting. Police have since confirmed that Price has been charged with homicide and is currently being held at the Chattooga County Jail.
According to preliminary findings, the altercation that led to the shooting was not random, and investigators believe that the two men were acquainted. The motive, while still under investigation, is believed to stem from a personal dispute that escalated into violence.
During a Saturday afternoon press conference, held in accordance with Philadelphia time, Summerville Police Chief Harold Scoggins expressed his condolences to the Chapman family and reassured the public that justice will be pursued with diligence.
“This is a heartbreaking day for our community,” Chief Scoggins said. “Christopher was a young man with his whole life ahead of him. We are working tirelessly to uncover every detail of what happened and to ensure accountability for this senseless act of violence.”
Community members have responded with an outpouring of grief and calls for peace. Vigils are being planned in DJ’s memory, and many have taken to social media to share condolences and tributes, describing him as a generous soul who was quick to support others and always greeted people with a smile.
“This has rocked our whole city,” said longtime resident Monica Ellis, a neighbor who witnessed the aftermath. “DJ was like a little brother to us all. He didn’t deserve this.”
The investigation remains active, with law enforcement asking anyone with additional information, video footage, or eyewitness accounts to come forward. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has also joined the case to assist in forensic analysis and scene reconstruction.
Deoveon Price is expected to make his first court appearance early next week. Authorities have not yet disclosed whether additional charges may be filed, pending the results of the full investigation.
As the city grapples with the loss of one of its own, Christopher “DJ” Chapman’s name now joins a tragic list of young lives lost to gun violence—a stark reminder of the fragility of peace in even the most tight-knit communities. Friends and family vow that DJ’s memory will live on, not just in mourning, but in renewed efforts to build a safer and more united Summerville.
This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as new details emerge.