Witnesses sought for Athens murder after UGA-Kentucky football game

The Athens-Clarke County Police Department is seeking help from any UGA football fans who may have witnessed a murder that occurred in downtown Athens Nov. 23.

James P. Cole of Hixson, Tenn., a football player for University of the South, was killed near the intersection of Broad and Lumpkin Streets between 2:30 and 3 a.m., police said. According to newspaper reports, Cole was shot to death outside the downtown nightclub Insomnia; he had been visiting friends in Athens.

The incident occurred after the Georgia-Kentucky football game and police are hoping any fans who stayed overnight might have information that could help solve the case. In fact, police estimated a crowd of 300 people was nearby when the shooting occurred, according to accounts published in the Athens Banner-Herald.

Detectives want to speak with anyone who may have taken photos of street scenes or people in the downtown Athens area between 6 p.m. the previous evening until 5 a.m. that Sunday. They are especially interested in anyone who may have witnessed events related to the murder that occurred in the area bounded by Broad Street, College Avenue, Washington Street and Hull Street during that time frame.

Police will make arrangements to copy any videos or photographs so the originals may be provided to the persons who provide them.

A significant monetary reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whomever killed Cole, police said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Rebecca Taft at (706) 613-3888, ext. 281, Maj. Alan Brown at (706) 613-3888, ext. 281 or Capt. James L. Williams at (706) 613-3888, ext. 325. Williams may also be e-mailed at jameswilliams@co.clarke.ga.us.

Information may also be shared via the Crimestoppers Tip Line at (706) 613-3342.