VALDOSTA — A 14-year-old was critically injured in an accidental shooting at a Valdosta apartment complex.
Release:
A 14-year-old juvenile was seriously injured during an accidental shooting.
On May 15, 2026, at 12:45 pm. Valdosta Police Officers, Valdosta Fire Fighters, and South Georgia Emergency Medical Services responded to Park Chase Apartments, 1100 Old Statenville Road, for reports of a shooting. When officers arrived at the apartments, they found citizens providing first aid to a 14-year-old male with a gunshot wound to his face.
Officers relieved the citizens and began providing first aid until firefighters and EMTs arrived. While providing first aid to the juvenile, he told officers that it was an accident and that he was shot by his friend, who had been playing with a gun.
The victim was transported to South Georgia Medical Center. The juvenile is listed as being in critical but stable condition. He has been transported to a hospital in Florida for further treatment.
Through investigation, detectives determined that a 16-year-old male had accidentally shot the victim while playing with a handgun. Families of both the victim and the 16-year-old were cooperative with the investigation, which helped detectives in determining what occurred in a timely manner.
Detectives contacted the Department of Juvenile Justice, which authorized the detention of the 16-year-old at a Regional Youth Detention Center. He has been charged with possession of a firearm by a person under 18 and reckless conduct. The juvenile was transported to Lowndes County Jail for transfer to a RYDC.
“We are thankful that this accidental shooting did not result in more serious injuries,” said Chief Leslie Manahan. “We appreciate the cooperation shown by the families and the juveniles involved. Their willingness to immediately provide information and work with detectives allowed first responders and detectives to quickly determine the circumstances of the incident without any unnecessary delays, ensuring the focus remained on safety for the community, along with accountability and support for everyone who has been affected by this incident.”
