Georgia Officials Hunt For Suspect In Shooting That Killed Two And Injured 35

Officials in Georgia are searching for suspects after a mass shooting at a block party in Vienna left two people dead and 35 others injured.

The shooting happened around 1:25 a.m. on Sunday on Pine Street in Vienna, a small city about 135 miles south of Atlanta. More than 1,000 people had gathered for a homecoming weekend block party.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said Dooly County sheriff’s deputies were already patrolling the event when more than 50 shots were fired.

Two men were pronounced dead at the scene. The GBI later identified them as Ja’Quavion Aderious Jackson, 21, and Macaleb Malik Jackson, 23. Dooly County Coroner Brett Walls said autopsies will be conducted.

At least 35 people were injured. Some were hit by gunfire, while others were hurt as the crowd fled or were hit by vehicles. Victims range in age from 14 to 51 and were taken to multiple regional hospitals. Some are in critical condition.

Dooly County Sheriff Craig Peavy said, “Some people were reporting fireworks and then someone said somebody been shot. Even while we were on scene, there was still gunfire about a block away.”

GBI Director Chris Hosey said officials have not identified a suspect or motive. He said, “We don’t want to presume as to what caused it.”

The GBI is leading the investigation at the request of the sheriff’s office. Officials said there is no ongoing threat to the public but urged anyone with video or information to come forward.