By Joe Johnson
A third person has been charged with murder in connection with a drive by shooting earlier this month that targeted a party being held at a house near the University of Georgia campus.
Jaden Makale Appling, 20, of Magnolia Street was arrested Friday night for his alleged involvement in the March 5 shooting on Northview Drive that claimed the life of 24-year-old Ja’ Vanni McDavid.
Police said the shooting had targeted a house where a party was being held. More than 40 rounds reportedly were fired during an exchange of gunfire between a car and people attending the party.
Police said they were investigating the possibility that the shooting was gang related.
“The gang aspect is certainly being investigated,” said Lt. Shaun Barnett. “However, the motive has not been confirmed at this time. As the investigation progresses, any additional charges that are appropriate will be made.”
Previously arrested for murder in connection with the deadly shooting were Glendarius Jamius Tate, 20, of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, and Anthony Quinn Brown, 19, of Magnolia Street.
Appling has a known affiliation with the 1831 Piru street gang.
In August 2020 he was one of three members of the gang who were arrested for beating and robbing a member of the rival Red Tape Gang. He was subsequently indicted on charges of robbery, battery, and violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act.
In a plea agreement, the street gang and robbery charges were dismissed in return for Appling pleading guilty to misdemeanor theft by taking and battery.
He was sentenced to 12 months on probation.
The Northview Drive shooting investigation remains ongoing, and police asked for anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Detective Paul Johnson at 762-400-7060 or paul.johnson@accgov.com.