Athens Man Sentenced for 2024 Gang-Related Killing
Zyquavious Thomas received a 35-year prison term after pleading guilty to charges linked to a fatal shooting.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Violence
Zyquavious Thomas has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for his role in the 2024 shooting death of Cameron Manago. The incident occurred at the Rolling Ridge Apartments in Athens.
Why it matters
The sentencing marks the legal conclusion for a violent incident involving gang activity in the city. The case underscores local law enforcement efforts to prosecute gang-related crimes connected to organized street groups.
Zyquavious Thomas received a 50-year sentence with 35 years served in prison following a guilty plea to voluntary manslaughter, armed robbery, and gang-related counts. The defendant was arrested on May 28, 2024, one day after the shooting.
The players
Zyquavious Thomas
He is the 18-year-old defendant who pleaded guilty to charges including voluntary manslaughter and armed robbery.
Cameron Manago
He was the 20-year-old victim who died from a gunshot wound at the Rolling Ridge Apartments.
Keanthony Sorrells
He is an alleged member of the Sex Money Murder street gang alongside the defendant.
Janiya Moore
She was arrested on drug charges in connection with the investigation into the shooting.
The details
Thomas pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter, armed robbery, and multiple gang-related charges stemming from the death of 20-year-old Cameron Manago. Authorities identified Thomas and co-defendant Keanthony Sorrells as members of the Sex Money Murder street gang, while Janiya Moore was also arrested on drug charges following the incident.
Timeline
May 27, 2024: Cameron Manago was shot to death.
May 28, 2024: Zyquavious Thomas was arrested.
September 2026: Zyquavious Thomas was sentenced.
Legal Context
This case follows the enforcement trajectory of the Georgia Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act sentencing guidelines. These guidelines provide the legal framework for enhanced prosecution of gang-related violent offenses in the state.
The sentencing concludes a violent episode at the Rolling Ridge Apartments, providing a resolution to the criminal case that disrupted the local neighborhood. Residents can expect the legal proceedings against other involved parties to continue through the court system.
The takeaway
The resolution of this case highlights the severe legal consequences for gang-related criminal activity. Community members seeking to address local safety issues are encouraged to report suspicious activity to local authorities.
Further reading
For more information on local safety, visit the Violence section.
