2 wanted for questioning in death investigation at Augusta hotel

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Authorities are searching for two people wanted for questioning in connection with a death investigation at the Deluxe Inn on Gordon Highway.

Maria Ann Montgomery, 32, and Patrick Benjamin Buxton, 35, are both wanted for questioning in connection to the investigation.

Emergency crews responded to 1636 Gordon Highway on April 15, 2026, where they found 26-year-old Samantha Ridlehoover, of Hephzibah, dead.

The Richmond County Coroner’s Officer pronounced her death just before 4:15 a.m. An autopsy is scheduled for Monday.

Montgomery is 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs approximately 150 pounds.

Buxton is 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighs approximately 125 pounds. Authorities say Buxton is homeless and is known to frequent hotels in the Washington Road area. He also has an active felony warrant in an unrelated case.

Officials were also looking for another man in connection with the incident. He has been identified, according to the sheriff’s office.

Anyone who comes into contact with either Montgomery or Buxton, or has information about their whereabouts, is asked to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office at 706-821-1020 or 706-821-1080.