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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