A heartbreaking and deeply disturbing case out of Hephzibah has left a community in mourning after 4-year-old Niomi Rose was killed in what authorities are describing as a brutal homicide. The suspect, 28-year-old Collin Aaron Aber, is now in custody following a tense overnight SWAT standoff in Augusta.
According to Richmond County Coroner Mark Bowen, Niomi Rose was rushed to Wellstar MCG Health by emergency responders but was tragically pronounced dead at 12:12 a.m. Saturday. Officials confirmed that the young child died from blunt force trauma, with injuries believed to have been inflicted by an adult. An autopsy has been scheduled as investigators work to gather further evidence.
Authorities allege that Niomi suffered severe and extensive injuries, including significant bruising to her chin, stomach, and back—injuries consistent with a violent and sustained assault involving hands and possibly other objects. The details of the case have shocked even seasoned investigators due to the severity of the abuse.
Aber, identified as the boyfriend of the child’s aunt—who reportedly had custody of Niomi—has been charged with murder in connection with her death. Investigators say that prior to emergency services being called, Aber allegedly contacted a woman, urging her to return home immediately. When she arrived, she found the child in critical condition and quickly called 911. Despite efforts to save her, Niomi succumbed to her injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital.
Following the child’s death, deputies with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office began searching for Aber. Shortly after midnight, law enforcement located him, but he fled, leading officers on a vehicle pursuit through Augusta. The chase came to an end in the 2000 block of Division Street, where the situation escalated further.
Authorities say Aber barricaded himself inside a residence, and there were concerns about potential hostages inside, prompting a full SWAT response. The standoff lasted several hours, with negotiators working to bring the situation to a peaceful resolution. Eventually, deputies made entry into the home and safely took Aber into custody without further incident.
Officials also revealed that Aber has a prior criminal history, including serving nearly two years in a Georgia prison between 2020 and 2022 on charges such as theft by receiving stolen property, criminal damage to property, and obstruction. More recently, in 2025, he was arrested again on charges including criminal trespassing and a probation and parole hold, which remain pending.
The tragic death of Niomi Rose has sparked outrage and grief across the community, as residents struggle to come to terms with the loss of such a young and innocent life under such horrific circumstances. Authorities continue to investigate the case, and additional charges could follow as more details emerge.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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