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Porterdale Today
By the People, for the People
McDonough Man Pleads Guilty in 2024 Porterdale Bar Shooting
William Kadeem Brown sentenced to 15 years in prison for voluntary manslaughter
Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:10pm
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A McDonough man named William Kadeem Brown has pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony for the 2024 shooting death of 68-year-old Kyle Fowler at the Porterdale Bar and Grill. Brown was sentenced to 15 years in prison and 10 years of probation.
Why it matters
This case highlights the tragic consequences that can result from the escalation of arguments and the presence of firearms in public spaces. The shooting death of Kyle Fowler at the Porterdale Bar and Grill underscores the need for better conflict resolution and gun safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The details
According to the Newton County District Attorney's Office, the incident occurred in July 2024 when Brown, who was at the bar with a female friend, got into an argument with Fowler and his group of friends over a seat at the bar. The argument escalated, and Brown brandished a firearm, claiming he did so out of fear for his safety. Fowler then reportedly produced a firearm as well, and Brown fired one shot, striking and killing Fowler. Brown then fled the scene, changed his appearance, and was later apprehended at his residence in Porterdale.
- The incident occurred in July 2024 at the Porterdale Bar and Grill.
- On March 23, 2026, a jury trial commenced but ended without a verdict, leading to a mistrial.
- On March 28, 2026, Brown pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and firearm possession.
The players
William Kadeem Brown
A McDonough man who pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony for the 2024 shooting death of Kyle Fowler.
Kyle Fowler
A 68-year-old man who was shot and killed by William Kadeem Brown during an argument at the Porterdale Bar and Grill in July 2024.
Randy McGinley
The Newton County District Attorney who provided additional details about the incident and Brown's plea.
What they’re saying
“Mixing guns and a needless escalation of an argument has led to the loss of Kyle Fowler's life and numerous years in prison for Mr. Brown. I hope this serves as a reminder that anger and split-second bad decisions can lead to horrible and tragic consequences.”
— Randy McGinley, Newton County District Attorney
What’s next
The judge's sentence of 15 years in prison and 10 years of probation for William Kadeem Brown will now be carried out.
The takeaway
This tragic incident underscores the need for better conflict resolution and gun safety measures to prevent similar escalations of arguments leading to violence and loss of life in the future. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences that can result from the combination of firearms and uncontrolled anger.
