This browser does not support the Video element.
Three-year-old shot and killed teen
Police say a 3-year-old shot and killed a teen in his Paulding County home. investigators have determined this was a tragic accident.
DALLAS, Ga. - A 3-year-old child accidentally shot and killed a 19-year-old man in a Paulding County home early Monday morning, according to the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office.
What we know:
Deputies responded to the shooting just after 7 a.m. along Eagles Nest Drive in the normally quiet Eagle’s Landing neighborhood. When they arrived, they found the teen dead from a gunshot wound to the back of the head.
The sheriff’s office cleared the scene around noon after conducting interviews with those inside the home. Officials say they are convinced this was a tragic accident, and no charges have been announced.
The victim was identified on Tuesday as Kabrel Patterson of Douglasville.
What they're saying:
"This is just a tragic situation," said Paulding County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jordan Yuodis. "Deputies determined a 3-year-old got a hold of a firearm and shot the man in the back of the head. [He was] deceased at the scene."
Authorities said the victim had arrived the previous night to visit family and had brought the firearm, which was used in the accidental shooting. Investigators believe the child somehow gained access to the gun before the fatal shot was fired.
Neighbors described a heavy law enforcement and emergency response presence that morning. One woman, who asked not to be identified, said she knew something was wrong when multiple police officers and EMS personnel arrived.
"I saw what looked like the entire household outside… including one adult," she said. "He asked me to give him a hug. Gave him a hug. Brought them some water and chairs, and then police put the crime scene tape up."
"He got there last night to visit family... [We're] trying to piece this together," Yuodis added.
Neighbors expressed sympathy for the family, saying the loss has shaken the community.
"Prayers for the family," one said. "The older kids look out for the younger kids."
Another neighbor said, "They seem to be, basically, such a good family."
What's next:
The investigation remains ongoing.
The Source: FOX 5's Kevyn Stewart spoke with Paulding County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jordan Yuodis and residents impacted.