Arrests Made in Brianna Long’s Bar Murder, Over a Year After Tragic Georgia Incident

Two young men in Lowndes County, Georgia, are now facing serious charges in connection with a tragic incident that unfolded in the early hours of October 29, 2023. Tsion Clayton, 23, and Kimone Green, 21, have been charged with malice murder after a college student, Brianna Long, was killed when a stray bullet struck her while she was working at The Pier, a local bar in Remerton, Georgia. Authorities have detailed a string of related arrests in what they describe as a wide-ranging indictment tied to gang-related activities.

On that fateful night, Brianna, a 21-year-old bartender and an aspiring dental hygienist, was wrapping up her shift alongside colleagues, having already stopped serving customers. The calm atmosphere was shattered when an “altercation” broke out outside the establishment, escalating into a shooting that would change many lives forever. According to law enforcement, Long and another bar staff member were hit by gunfire. Long was rushed to South Georgia Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries, leaving behind a community in shock.

Authorities believe that Clayton and Green, now identified as suspects, were in the vicinity looking for someone involved in an ongoing gang dispute when the bullets flew. Just three months later, a $25,000 reward was announced, aimed at generating tips leading to arrests in connection with Long’s death. The investigation, led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation in collaboration with the Remerton Police Department, spanned over a year before they were able to pinpoint the two men as suspects.

The investigation has broader implications, with seven individuals charged in a separate 44-count racketeering indictment. Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr emphasized the rising concern over gang violence in the area, stating, “Most of the murders that have recently occurred in Valdosta over the past couple of years have been gang-related.” He added, “Gang violence does not just affect gang members but also innocent members of our community.” It is a stark reminder that the repercussions of such disputes reach far beyond the individuals involved.

Brianna Long’s family spoke to reporters, highlighting her zest for life and the impact she had on those around her. They painted a picture of a vibrant young woman who graduated from Paulding County High School in 2020 and was set to graduate Valdosta State University. “There was not a fun time that we did not have with Brianna,” recalled her uncle, Kevin Long. Her obituary describes her as a “bright light,” remarking on her achievements and cherished relationships formed throughout her life.

As the community reels from this loss, a GoFundMe campaign to support Long’s family has raised over $25,000, showing the outpouring of support for her family. Meanwhile, the case remains active, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to reach out to the investigation team.

Clayton and Green, who are currently in custody for separate, unrelated charges—one in Georgia and the other in Florida—will now face the courts regarding the murder charges against them. The ongoing investigation into the gang activities and the dynamics that led to Long’s death raises questions about safety and the prevalence of gang violence in the area, signaling a need for community introspection and action.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the community stands firm in remembrance of Brianna Long, continuing to seek justice not only for her but for all victims of senseless violence. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of innocent lives caught in the crossfire of gang conflicts and the urgent need for initiatives aimed at addressing such issues head-on.