Wanted: Suspect Named In Musician's Murder

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By Tina Terry tterry@nbcaugusta.com

Richmond County investigators are looking for Anthony Joe Jr. He is charged with killing David Reader.

26-year-old David Reader was found slumped over in his car early Sunday morning on East Boundary. Investigators say Reader was trying to buy drugs in the neighborhood and was shot in the chest.

The Augusta Symphony Orchestra's executive director says Reader was a graduate of Georgia State University and came to Augusta for the job.

She says he was a superb musician who was planning to try out for the Atlanta Opera.

"Everyone really admired David. He was a fine musician who had such an inspiration about music. He loved it and was just a real sweet young man," said Sandra Self, the Augusta Symphony's Executive Director.

Self said she never suspected Reader had any personal or drug problems.

Investigators spent the day asking neighbors to help solve the crime, but some say, in this neighborhood fear of retribution can seal lips. Two men we spoke with wanted their identities kept a secret.

"It's hard to talk about because you never know who knew them. You don't want to tell on somebody's kin folk or anything like that," said one of them.

But investigators say for the past two years they've worked hard to gain the trust of the community. They're confident someone will step forward.

Some who say they're tired of the crime and admit some things are worth standing up for.

As of Monday afternoon, investigators said they've gotten several tips. Any tip you give them will remain anonymous. They are also offering a cash reward for any information that leads to an arrest.

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