ATLANTA, Ga. — A Tragic Loss: 12-Year-Old Boy Killed in Drive-By Shooting at Apartment Complex

ATLANTA, Ga. — A Tragic Loss: 12-Year-Old Boy Killed in Drive-By Shooting at Apartment Complex

A heartbreaking tragedy has shaken the city of Atlanta, as a 12-year-old boy lost his life in a drive-by shooting Thursday evening, June 12, 2025. The devastating incident took place at the Camden Vantage Apartments, located on the 3200 block of Cushman Circle in southwest Atlanta.

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum confirmed during a press conference that officers were dispatched shortly after 7 p.m. following multiple reports of shots fired and a possible gunshot victim at the complex. When officers arrived, they discovered the young boy suffering from a gunshot wound. He was immediately transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he was pronounced dead.

Preliminary investigations suggest that an ongoing dispute between two groups at the apartment complex escalated into violence, culminating in the fatal drive-by shooting. Authorities have not yet released the boy’s name, but family members and community members describe him as a bright, joyful child with his whole life ahead of him.

“This is a senseless act of violence,” said Chief Schierbaum. “A child’s life was stolen. This is not just a crime scene—it is a scene of deep sorrow for a family and a community that now must cope with unimaginable grief.”

Residents of the complex reported hearing a flurry of gunshots and seeing vehicles speeding away from the scene. Witnesses say the altercation appeared to start earlier in the evening and involved older teenagers and young adults, though details remain under investigation. Police believe the boy was not the intended target but was tragically caught in the crossfire.

Investigators are now reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding area and urging anyone with information to come forward. Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta is offering a reward for tips that lead to an arrest and conviction in the case.

“This violence must stop,” said Atlanta City Councilmember Andrea Boone, who represents the district. “We cannot normalize children being gunned down in our communities. We will continue to fight for safer streets and justice for every family affected by this kind of trauma.”

Grief counselors have been made available to residents of the apartment complex and to classmates and teachers of the young victim. A candlelight vigil is being organized by neighbors and community leaders to honor the life of the boy, who loved basketball, video games, and spending time with his younger siblings.

As Atlanta mourns the loss of yet another young life to gun violence, the incident serves as a tragic reminder of the urgent need for community-driven solutions, improved youth outreach, and stronger measures to prevent the senseless bloodshed that has become far too common in neighborhoods across the city.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Atlanta Police Department or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS (8477).