Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 4-Year-Old in Statesboro

Tragic Shooting Claims Life of 4-Year-Old in Statesboro

Statesboro, GA – May 29, 2025 — A heartbreaking incident has rocked the community of Statesboro this evening, as a 4-year-old child was fatally shot at The Hamptons apartment complex, located just outside the city’s center. The tragic event occurred shortly before 6:00 p.m., sending shockwaves through the neighborhood and prompting an immediate response from emergency personnel and law enforcement.

According to authorities, the young child sustained a gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead shortly after first responders arrived on the scene. Despite efforts to provide emergency care, the injuries were too severe to overcome.

Statesboro Police Department officers were dispatched to The Hamptons shortly after reports of a gunshot were made. Upon arrival, they secured the area and began preliminary investigations. It was confirmed that several individuals were present in the apartment at the time of the shooting, although details regarding the events that led up to the gunfire remain unclear.

“We are currently investigating all circumstances surrounding this devastating incident,” said SPD Public Information Officer Sgt. Josh DeLoach. “At this time, we are interviewing witnesses, processing the scene, and working diligently to determine exactly what happened. Our hearts go out to the family of the young victim. This is a tragedy no family should have to endure.”

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the child, pending notification of extended family members. It is also not yet known whether the shooting was accidental or intentional, and no arrests have been announced as of this report.

The Bulloch County Coroner’s Office has been involved, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has been notified and may assist, depending on the direction of the case.

Neighbors at The Hamptons expressed shock and grief as they watched police and emergency crews swarm the complex. Many described the area as typically quiet and family-friendly, and several residents reported hearing the sound of a single gunshot followed by cries and commotion.

“I just can’t believe it,” said one resident who asked not to be named. “You don’t expect something like this to happen, especially to a child. I have kids of my own, and my heart is breaking for that family.”

As the community grapples with the gravity of the loss, officials are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Statesboro Police are asking potential witnesses or anyone with surveillance footage from the area to contact their tip line.

The incident is the latest in a troubling trend of gun-related deaths involving children across the country. While each case is unique, child safety advocates continue to emphasize the importance of responsible firearm storage and education, especially in homes with young children.

Counseling and crisis support services are expected to be made available to residents of the complex and those directly affected by the tragedy.

More information will be released as the investigation progresses. The Statesboro Police Department has stated that they will provide updates to the public as soon as they are able to do so without compromising the integrity of the investigation.