Home · World · Oct 4 archive
Shooting at Georgia Homecoming Celebration Kills 2, Injures 35
Developing
In Short: A shooting during a homecoming celebration in Vienna, Georgia, left two dead and 35 injured.
The shooting occurred around 1:25 a.m. in Vienna, a city in Dooly County, approximately 100 miles south of Atlanta, during a homecoming weekend celebration.
The victims who were killed were found in the 600 block of Pine Street and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Dooly County Sheriff’s deputies responded immediately after the shooting began.
Dooly County School System Superintendent Dr. Sherrod Willaford said the district was 'deeply saddened' by the shooting and expressed condolences to the families of those killed and injured, noting that the event was not sponsored by the district.
Democratic state Representative Patty Stinson, whose district includes Dooly County, told WMAZ she was 'very heartbroken' by the violence.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) said the investigation remains 'active and ongoing' and urged anyone with information to contact the agency's Regional Investigative Office in Perry.
Willaford encouraged the community to check in with students, staff, parents, and neighbors throughout the coming week.
The district has activated its crisis support teams to assist those affected by the tragedy.
Community members gathered to offer condolences and support, with some expressing their grief and love for their families.
Mabel Dunbar, who was celebrating her birthday in Fayetteville, expressed her love for her families and strangers, emphasizing the importance of community support.
Willaford noted, 'Recognizing the emotional impact of this tragedy, we have activated our crisis support teams to assist.'
He added, 'A caring conversation, a listening ear, and continued support can make a meaningful difference.'
What this adds
The shooting took place during a homecoming celebration, but the event was not sponsored by the school district.
Background
A shooting during a homecoming celebration in Vienna, Georgia, left two dead and 35 injured.
A shooting during a homecoming celebration in Vienna, Georgia, left two dead and 35 injured.
What's still developing
- "Student and staff safety remain our highest priority," Willaford said.
- "It was very heartbreaking to wake up this morning to learn that a mass shooting took place in Vienna," Stinson said.
- "I'm so sorry this has happened to all of these families who have been affected."
- "We are grateful for the compassion and support being demonstrated throughout our community."
- "Treat them the best you can, because they are important," Dunbar said regarding grandchildren.
- "I love all my families and strangers. Because the amount of friends that I have, a lot of person going to leave me one year to be 112. And the large half of me, 120 to leave."
- "You need them when you can to help yourself like me. These good people are on me all the time, and I'm happy to see them when they come."