One Dead, Six Injured in Tragic Mass Shooting on Seminary Street
A quiet LaGrange neighborhood was torn apart by violence early Sunday morning when gunfire erupted during a gathering, leaving one young man dead and six others wounded in what police are now classifying as a mass shooting. The tragedy occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m. at a home located on Seminary Street, a residential area just blocks from downtown, and has left the community in mourning and law enforcement searching for answers.
According to the LaGrange Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene after multiple 911 calls reported shots fired in the area. Upon arrival, officers encountered a chaotic and deeply distressing scene: several individuals suffering from gunshot wounds and panicked bystanders attempting to render aid. Emergency medical personnel quickly arrived and began treating the wounded on-site before transporting them to local hospitals.
Authorities confirmed that one male victim, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene. The six injured victims — all believed to be between the ages of 17 and 25 — suffered a range of injuries. At least two of the victims were reported to be in critical condition as of Sunday evening.
Preliminary reports suggest that a group of people had gathered at the residence for a party or social event when the shooting occurred. Investigators believe that multiple suspects may have opened fire following a confrontation, though a motive remains unclear. Detectives are working to determine whether the incident was targeted or random.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the injuries sustained in this senseless act of violence,” LaGrange Police Chief Garrett Fiveash said in a statement. “Our investigators are working around the clock to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. We urge anyone with information to come forward.”
As of now, no arrests have been made, and authorities are appealing to the public for help. They are particularly interested in any video footage from the area around the time of the shooting, including home surveillance and cellphone recordings. A dedicated tip line has been established, and tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The LaGrange community, already grappling with rising concerns over youth violence and gun accessibility, is reeling from the impact of this latest tragedy. Local leaders and clergy gathered at a vigil on Sunday evening near the site of the shooting, calling for peace, justice, and support for the victims’ families.
“This kind of violence should never become normal,” said Pastor Michael Jenson, who led the gathering. “We cannot allow our neighborhoods, our children, or our future to be stolen by bullets. We must do better.”
Nearby residents expressed shock and sorrow, describing the neighborhood as typically peaceful and family-oriented. “We heard the gunshots — it was terrifying. And then the screaming,” said a woman who lives nearby and declined to be named. “I have kids, and I’m just scared for them now. This shouldn’t be happening here.”
In the aftermath of the shooting, the LaGrange Police Department has increased patrols in the area and is coordinating with local and state agencies to support the ongoing investigation. Police are also working with community organizations to provide counseling and outreach services for those affected.
This mass shooting is one of the deadliest incidents in LaGrange in recent memory and adds to a troubling trend of gun violence across the state and nation. Elected officials have renewed calls for community intervention strategies, stronger gun laws, and enhanced youth engagement programs to address the root causes of violence.
As the investigation continues and the wounded begin the long road to recovery, the city of LaGrange finds itself grappling with grief, uncertainty, and a collective yearning for change.
Anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to contact the LaGrange Police Department at (706) 883-2603 or submit anonymous tips through Troup County Crime Stoppers at (706) 812-1000.
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