Suspect Identified in Killing of University of West Georgia Student

20-year-old David Powell charged with murder of 19-year-old Lyric Farley

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Authorities in Douglas County, Georgia have identified 20-year-old David Powell as the suspect in the shooting death of 19-year-old University of West Georgia student Lyric Farley. Farley was found deceased in a vehicle behind a Dollar General store on Saturday afternoon, and Powell was arrested early Sunday morning on Interstate 20. Powell and Farley had a prior personal relationship, though the exact nature of it is unclear.

Why it matters

The tragic killing of a young college student has shaken the community and raised concerns about safety, especially for students living and studying away from home. Authorities are working to determine the motive and circumstances behind the shooting, which appears to have stemmed from a prior disagreement between the suspect and victim.

The details

According to Douglas County Sheriff's Office Lt. Col. Tavarreus Pounds, Farley and Powell met at the location behind the Dollar General store following a disagreement, during which Farley was shot and killed. Powell was arrested around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday morning after being pulled over on I-20 near Highway 5. He was taken into custody without incident and is facing charges of murder and aggravated assault. Multiple firearms and vehicles have been impounded as part of the ongoing investigation.

  • The shooting occurred around 1 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2026 behind a Dollar General store.
  • Powell was arrested around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 9, 2026 on Interstate 20.

The players

Lyric Farley

A 19-year-old student at the University of West Georgia who was killed in the shooting.

David Powell

A 20-year-old man who has been charged with murder and aggravated assault in connection with Farley's killing. Powell and Farley had a prior personal relationship.

Lt. Col. Tavarreus Pounds

A Douglas County Sheriff's Office official who provided details about the investigation and arrest of Powell.

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What they’re saying

“The investigation remains active and anyone with information is asked to reach out to investigators at 678-486-1251.”

— Lt. Col. Tavarreus Pounds, Douglas County Sheriff's Office (11alive.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant Powell bail at a hearing later this week.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for greater support and resources for college students, as well as the importance of addressing underlying issues that can lead to violence within personal relationships. The community is mourning the loss of a young life and seeking answers and justice.