MILLEDGEVILLE — A grieving community is mourning the loss of a 3-year-old child who died following a tragic shooting at a Milledgeville residence on Saturday afternoon.
Officers from the Milledgeville Police Department (MPD) were dispatched to a home on the 1100 block of Dunlap Road at 12:53 p.m. following reports of a toddler who had been shot. Upon arrival, officers and responding Baldwin County deputies discovered the injured child. In a desperate attempt to provide life-saving care, authorities transported the victim to the hospital in a patrol vehicle rather than waiting for an ambulance. Despite these emergency efforts, the child succumbed to their injuries.
Preliminary reports released by the MPD indicate that the shooting occurred while three young children—ages 3, 5, and 7—were inside the home. Investigators believe the children gained access to a firearm, which ultimately discharged, striking the toddler.
At the time of the incident, the children’s father was also inside the residence. He was detained by police and transported to the local station for questioning. As of Saturday afternoon, authorities have not filed formal charges against him, though they emphasized that the investigation is active and pending further interviews and evidence collection. Police confirmed that a search warrant was obtained and executed at the property, resulting in the recovery of the firearm suspected to be involved in the shooting.
The Georgia Division of Family & Children Services (DFACS) has been notified and arrived on the scene shortly after the incident. The agency is conducting a parallel investigation into the circumstances surrounding the children’s welfare and the conditions of the home.
In an official statement, the Milledgeville Police Department expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, calling it a difficult and heartbreaking event for all involved. The department extended its gratitude to the first responders who acted quickly under immense pressure, including personnel from the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, Atrium Health EMS, and the medical staff at Atrium Health Navicent Baldwin.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with everyone affected by this tragic incident,” the MPD stated in their press release.
As the investigation continues, officials are expected to release further updates regarding the findings and any potential criminal charges. The department has asked for patience as they navigate the complexities of the case. For now, the community is left to grapple with the shocking loss of a young life and the sobering reality of the dangers associated with unsecured firearms in the home.
The MPD has indicated that as soon as more information becomes available, additional details will be provided to the public.
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