RICHMOND COUNTY, GA — A close-knit Richmond County community is reeling after a devastating family tragedy claimed the lives of three individuals on Sunday, November 2, 2025. Authorities report that 55-year-old Sheri Methvin was the likely shooter in a harrowing incident that ended with the deaths of her sister, Sandra Moulton, and their stepfather, Carmen Ray, before Sheri took her own life at a residence on Bennock Mill Road.
The incident unfolded in the evening hours, with local law enforcement responding shortly after 8:00 p.m. to reports of multiple deaths inside a home on the 600 block of Bennock Mill Road. According to Coroner Mark Bowen, two of the three individuals have been positively identified: Carmen Ray, 77, of Augusta, and Sheri Methvin, 55, of Augusta. The third individual, believed to be Sandra Moulton, Sheri’s sister, has not yet been positively identified but is strongly presumed to be the remaining victim. Autopsies have been scheduled for all three.
Authorities are treating the incident as a double homicide–suicide, with Sheri Methvin considered the shooter. Sheriff’s Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community and emphasized that the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office and Coroner’s Office are thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
The tragedy has left friends, family, and neighbors in profound grief. Sandra Moulton, described by friends as “the most peaceful, kind, gentle human,” is being mourned deeply across social media. Heartfelt tributes highlight her warmth, generosity, and the quiet kindness she brought into the lives of those around her.
One of her close friends, Marquita Hodges, posted on Facebook:
“Will miss you, girl. Give all those already there a hug from me. Tell them I love them. Thanks for being a great friend, I’ll never forget you. I love you.”
Neighbors and community members have expressed shock and sorrow over the sudden and violent nature of the incident. For a normally quiet and peaceful neighborhood, the events of that night were unimaginable, leaving a void that will be felt for years to come. Flowers, candles, and notes of remembrance have begun appearing outside the home as the community grapples with the loss.
Richmond County authorities continue to investigate, working to understand the events that led to this tragic loss of life. While details are still emerging, the focus remains on supporting the families affected and ensuring the community can process this tragedy safely and with care.
As the community mourns, friends and family are encouraged to share photos, stories, and memories of the victims by texting them to 803-487-3224, helping to preserve the legacy of the lives lost.
In loving memory of Sandra Moulton and Carmen Ray, Richmond County honors their lives and the love they shared with those around them. While the circumstances are tragic and painful, the memories of their kindness, warmth, and generosity will endure in the hearts of all who knew them.