Twelve teenagers were injured after gunfire erupted during a birthday gathering at a park in Macon, Georgia, early Sunday, authorities said. The shooting happened shortly after midnight at Carolyn Crayton Park after an argument between two groups escalated into an exchange of gunfire. Two of the victims were reported to be in critical but stable condition.
Gunfire Erupts After Confrontation at Macon Park
Deputies were called to Carolyn Crayton Park at about 12:06 a.m. Sunday following reports of gunfire near the park’s skatepark area.
According to investigators, a group of young people had gathered to celebrate an 18th birthday. The celebration had initially taken place at a rental property in neighboring Jones County, but the group was asked to leave after the property owner became concerned about firearms at the location.
The group later moved to the Macon park. Authorities said another group arrived in the area, and the two groups exchanged words before firearms were displayed and shots were fired.
Investigators are still working to establish what led to the confrontation and whether there was any prior connection between the groups.
12 Teenagers Suffer Gunshot Wounds
Authorities said the victims ranged in age from 17 to 19. They included five 17-year-old males, four 18-year-old males, two 18-year-old females and one 19-year-old male.
The 19-year-old victim arrived at a medical facility later Sunday and was treated for a gunshot wound that was not considered life-threatening. Two other victims — an 18-year-old male and a 17-year-old male — were reported to be in critical but stable condition. The remaining victims were listed as stable.
Several injured teenagers were taken to the hospital in private vehicles before deputies arrived at the park. The large number of vehicles, family members and friends arriving at the medical facility led hospital officials to temporarily lock down the emergency department.
Authorities have said there is currently no indication that the teenagers who were wounded participated in the gunfire.
Investigation Continues as Authorities Seek Information
Investigators are examining evidence from the park and vehicles connected to the incident. Seven vehicles were taken to a crime laboratory, including four that transported injured victims and three that remained at the park.
Police also interviewed 10 potential witnesses as they worked to reconstruct the events leading up to the shooting.
No arrests had been announced as of the latest update, although investigators have identified people of interest. Authorities are continuing to determine who fired the weapons and what triggered the confrontation.
The FBI is also assisting investigators because of the number of people involved, while authorities have indicated that the evidence currently points to a local incident.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office or provide an anonymous tip through Macon Regional Crime Stoppers.
