Four Charged with Murder After 15-Year-Old Boy Found Dead in Georgia Apartment

A 15-year-old boy was found dead in an abandoned home in Albany, Georgia, on November 1. Authorities confirmed the victim, Austin Payne, was identified through his phone location after his mother tracked it the next morning.

Payne had called his mother shortly after 8 pm to report shots fired, but lost connection before she could reach him. His mother later found his phone at the abandoned home, leading to the discovery of his body.

On Wednesday, four individuals were arrested and charged with murder in connection with Payne’s death. The suspects include three teenagers and a 22-year-old man.

The Albany Police Department stated the incident occurred sometime after 2:32 a.m. on November 1 on the 800 block of Cameo Lane. Officers arrived at the scene and found the victim inside the abandoned residence.

Officials confirmed the victim was 15-year-old Austin Payne of Albany, Georgia. His obituary noted he was born on November 12, 2010, in Albany, and enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting.