Authorities are actively searching for Akeem Ajima Lanier, 29, of Metter, who is wanted in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred early Saturday morning. The incident took place around 12:30 a.m. at a residence located at 820 Hodges Street in Metter, Georgia. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered 27-year-old James Edward Butler Jr. deceased at the scene from a single gunshot wound. A subsequent autopsy performed at the GBI Crime Lab in Savannah officially confirmed the cause of death. Also present during the altercation was 28-year-old Byron Brown, who sustained gunshot injuries and was airlifted to a Savannah medical facility. Brown underwent surgery and remains in stable condition, recovering from a broken femur. Interim Metter Police Chief Rob Shore noted that Lanier and Butler were acquaintances and mutual combatants involved in a struggle, with both men reportedly armed. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has assumed a leading role in the probe, with Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Joshua Ayer confirming that arrest warrants were issued Monday for Lanier. Investigators emphasize that the case remains active and additional charges may be filed as the inquiry continues. The GBI and Metter Police Department are urging anyone with information regarding Lanier’s whereabouts or details about the shooting to come forward. Residents can provide tips to the GBI at (912) 871-1121 or contact the Metter Police Department directly at (912) 685-5437.