Vienna, Ga. – A neighborhood celebration turned deadly early Sunday morning when shots rang out at a block party in the city. Deputies from the Dooly County Sheriff’s Office were on patrol at the event when gunfire was reported at approximately 1:25 a.m., according to a statement from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).
Casualties and emergency response
First‑responders found two men, ages 20 and 23, with fatal gunshot wounds. Dooly County Coroner Brett Walls pronounced both victims dead at the scene. In addition to the fatalities, roughly 35 people were injured, though officials have not detailed how many were shot versus other types of injuries. Victims were transported to several area hospitals for treatment.
Investigation ongoing
The sheriff’s office and the GBI have not released information about suspects, arrests, or a motive. Both agencies said they are actively investigating the incident and have not yet responded to media inquiries seeking further details.
Community impact
The shooting has left the small‑town community reeling. Residents described the scene as “horrific,” and local leaders are urging calm while law‑enforcement works to bring answers. The incident underscores the challenges of maintaining public safety in rural Georgia, where resources are often stretched thin.
What’s next?
Authorities continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review any available video footage. The Dooly County Sheriff’s Office has asked anyone with information to contact them promptly. As the investigation proceeds, community members are rallying to support the families of the victims and those injured.
Associated Press reporter Anthony Izaguirre in New York contributed to this report.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.