VALDOSTA, Ga. (WTXL) - The Valdosta Police Department is investigating after a fight escalated into gunfire, injuring a victim.
VPD says that on Tuesday, around 12:45 a.m., officers were called to the 1400 block of Williams Street about a juvenile victim being hit by a bullet.
When officers arrived, they talked to the victim, who reported that she was hit while she was walking away from the Bazemore-Hyder Stadium after attending a Valdosta High School event that ended at midnight.
While walking away, the victim said that she heard several people arguing and fighting. As she was trying to get away from the commotion, the victim said she heard several gunshots.
The victim advised that while running, she felt something hit her neck.
An inspection revealed a small non-life threatening wound on the victim’s neck.
The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. VPD says she has since been released.
No additional injuries were reported, however, multiple shell casings were found. In addition, police say several cars were damaged by gunfire.
Witnesses say that at some point in the evening, before the shooting, multiple people were in an argument and that off duty police officers working the high school event broke up the argument.
According to VPD, sometime later in the evening, away from the stadium, another fight started that escalated into gunfire.
Police say it also appears as though all people involved were familiar with each other and not targeting other pedestrians/students in the area.
The shooting in Valdosta was close enough to be heard by players and coaches.
But the school system says the shooting was unrelated to the practice.
The investigation is active and VPD will release further details as they become available.
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