WALB is working to produce a video for this story. In the meantime, we encourage you to watch our livestream.

BAINBRIDGE, Ga. (WALB) - The grandmother who was charged in connection with the shooting death of 8-year-old Kylen Powell has entered a not guilty plea.

Knisha Perkins, 49, was arrested on Tuesday, July 15, in connection to her grandson’s death. She faces the following charges:

• Three counts of cruelty to children in the second degree
• Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon

|PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 2 arrested in connection to shooting death of Decatur County 8-year-old|

Officials said that a 13-year-old relative shot and killed 8-year-old Kylen Powell while he was in Perkins’ home. Perkins’ was not in the home at the time of the shooting, according to officials.

During the investigation, it was determined that the victim was shot using a firearm that was present in the residence.

A trial date has not been set. WALB will continue to follow this case and update you as we learn more.

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Copyright 2025 WALB. All rights reserved.