A neighborhood gathering in Vienna, Georgia turned deadly when gunfire erupted at multiple locations early Sunday morning, leaving two men dead and 35 others wounded in one of the state’s worst mass shootings this year.

Chaos Across Multiple Locations

More than 1,000 people had assembled for a block party around 1:25 a.m. when shooters opened fire in at least two separate locations approximately one block apart on Pine Street. Dooly County Sheriff Craig Peavy reported that over 50 shots rang out as deputies were already on patrol at the event. People scattered in every direction as the violence unfolded, with some victims struck by fleeing vehicles in the panic.

The situation intensified when additional gunfire broke out a block away even as officers responded to the initial shooting scene. Sheriff Peavy described the confusion officers faced during the attack, explaining they could not determine the direction of incoming fire while trying to assist victims and secure the area.

Victims Identified And Hospitalized

Authorities identified the deceased as Jaquevion Jackson, 21, of Cordele, and Macaleb Jackson, 23, of Hawkinsville. Both were pronounced dead at the scene from gunshot wounds. The 35 injured victims range in age from 14 to 51 years old, with conditions varying from stable to critical. Most suffered gunshot wounds, though several sustained injuries from vehicle strikes or other trauma while escaping the violence.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has taken over the case at the request of the sheriff’s office. No arrests have been made, and authorities have not disclosed how many shooters were involved or identified any motive for the attack. Sheriff Peavy issued a public plea for suspects to surrender, stating his department is pursuing every lead.

Community Response And Safety Measures

The shooting occurred during homecoming weekend for Dooly County High School, though Superintendent Sherrod Willaford clarified the block party was not a school-sponsored event. Vienna Mayor Eddie Daniels confirmed the city had not issued permits for the gathering. Schools will remain open Monday with enhanced security protocols in place to address student concerns and ensure safety.

This marks the second major shooting incident in central Georgia within a week. Just days earlier in Macon, located 50 miles north, 12 teenagers were wounded during gunfire at a birthday party in a city park. Vienna sits approximately 130 miles south of Atlanta along the Interstate 75 corridor.