Four teens shot in Midway, one in critical condition

MIDWAY, Ga. — Four teenagers were sent to the hospital after a shooting early Sunday morning just off Bill Carter Road in Midway. One teen remains in critical condition.

The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office announced on social media that one teen was shot in the chest and is in critical condition. Three others were also shot but have non-life-threatening injuries.

It is not clear what led up to the shooting.

Community reacts to violence

Otis Smiley, a long-term resident who lives just down Bill Carter Road, said he was shocked when he heard about the shooting.

“Pretty much this is a quiet road. Everybody stays to themselves and no one is causing the trouble,” Smiley said.

Another neighbor said he heard multiple rapid-fire gunshots ring out late in the night.

Smiley urged young people to avoid violence.

“There’s nothing out in the streets but trouble. Stay away from it,” he said. “Put the gun down. I mean, violence is not the answer. Find something constructive to do with their lives. Stay home.”

Midway Mayor Malcolm Williams said the shooting is part of a larger problem.

“This is not just a Liberty County situation. This is becoming a nationwide epidemic. And also, I don’t want the communities, I don’t want our nation to get numbed to this,” Williams said.

Williams said he understands it is easier said than done, but urged teens to walk away from violence.

“But young people right now a lot of them don’t have outlets and its so easy to become violent,” Williams said.

Williams also added that adults need to sit down with the youth and really listen to what they are saying.

The Liberty County Sheriff’s Office is still looking for the shooting suspect. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office.