Teacher, youth coach wounded at shooting during Augusta, Georgia homecoming celebration

Teacher and youth coach Gemyia “Meme” Bowman is recovering after being shot during a homecoming celebration at Lucy C. Laney High School in Augusta, Georgia.

Gunfire erupted in the tailgating area on October 17 and injured Bowman, 28, a former Albany State basketball player and Laney graduate, along with two other adults. Authorities say the shooting followed a fight near the stadium.

Shooting Followed a Fight

Deputies say a confrontation broke out between Bowman and Aiyana Lane, 27, in the parking lot. Bystanders stepped in to break up the fight. Moments later, Lane allegedly pulled a handgun and fired toward Bowman, striking her in the chest. The gunfire hit two bystanders — Shaianah Hannah and Dekoya Mack. Hannah took a bullet in the hip, and Mack suffered a wound to the hand. All three victims survived, and doctors treated them for non‑life‑threatening injuries.

Authorities recovered the weapon and arrested Lane at the scene. She faces multiple charges, including three counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during a crime, cruelty to children and carrying a weapon on school grounds. A six‑year‑old child was nearby during the shooting, prompting the additional cruelty charge.

Bowman’s Background

Bowman is known locally as a dedicated educator and youth coach. She played basketball at Albany State University, earned a master’s degree in criminal justice, and returned to her hometown to teach and mentor young athletes. Her work in the community has made her a familiar and respected figure in Augusta.

Family members say she now faces a lengthy recovery. Her injuries require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation and time away from work

Bowman’s mother, Carolyn, launched a GoFundMe to help cover medical expenses and household bills while her daughter heals.