5 men wanted in mob assault may have info on shooting death

Police are searching for five men they believe participated in a mob-style attack and who may also have information about a fatal shooting from earlier this month.

The assault reportedly took place July 13 on Marilyn Avenue, according to a news release from Sumter Police Department. A group of men punched the victim in the face and body, the release stated.

The victim’s injuries were no life-threatening.

Police are investigating the reason for the assault.

Sumter police issued warrants for the following men:

▪  Dontrell Devontae Dean, 22, whose last known address is 927 Mathis St., Apt. B, in Sumter.

▪  Tavoris Lamont Gaillard, 22, whose last known address is 1054 Porter St. in Sumter

▪  Kennan Alonza Georgia, 24, whose last known address is 1068 Fireglow St. in Manning

▪  Bernard Colin Peoples, 22, whose last known address is 945 Gaines Road in Sumter

▪  Arkeylin Keytron Scott, 23, whose last known address is 23 W. Patricia Drive in Sumter

Each of the five men face a charge of third degree assault and battery by a mob. Police are also working to identify a sixth man involved in the assault.

The men are also wanted for questioning in the July 15 shooting death of Ante Witherspoon in Sumter.

Witherspoon was shot to death near his family’s home on Dibert Street.

Suspect Bernie Peoples, 28, turned himself into police the next day. He remains at Sumter-Lee Regional Detention Center on a murder charge.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Dean, Gaillard, Georgia, Bernard Peoples and Scott or have information about the mob assault or shooting can contact Sumter Police Department at (803) 436-2700.

Those who leave tips, which can be anonymous, to Crimestoppers – (803) 436-2718 or 1-888-CRIME-SC – that lead to an arrest could receive up to $1,000 in reward money.