LaGRANGE, GA — A weekend party in LaGrange turned into a deadly scene early Sunday morning when an unknown gunman opened fire, killing one teen and injuring six others. The shooting occurred around 1 a.m. during a backyard gathering at a residence in the western part of the city, shocking a community now searching for answers.
The victim who lost his life has been identified as 19-year-old Javeon Dukes. Authorities say Dukes was critically injured and transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. His sudden death has devastated family members and friends, many of whom gathered near the scene in the hours following the tragedy.
According to the LaGrange Police Department, six additional people were injured in the shooting. While their names have not been released, officials say some victims were treated and released from local hospitals, while others are still receiving care. The extent of their injuries has not been publicly disclosed.
As of Monday, no arrests had been made, and investigators have yet to determine a motive for the attack. Police have launched an active investigation and are appealing to the public for help. Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the LaGrange Police Department, as even small details could assist in identifying the suspect.
Family members of the deceased are speaking out, pleading for justice. Shant Dukes, a cousin of Javeon, told WAGA-TV that the gunfire broke out suddenly and without warning. “They shot into a crowd of kids,” she said, heartbroken over the loss of her relative and the trauma left behind. The family is now planning a vigil in his memory.
The shooting has rattled the LaGrange community and reignited concerns about rising gun violence, especially among young people. Local leaders and residents are calling for increased safety measures and community engagement to prevent future tragedies. As police continue their investigation, the hope remains that those responsible will be brought to justice and that healing can begin for the victims and their families.
