Valdosta Teen Accidentally Shoots Himself During Armed Disturbance; Five Arrested
On October 2, 2025, at approximately 8:30 p.m., Valdosta Police Department Patrol Officers responded to a residence in the 500 block of Green Street after multiple citizens reported several individuals waving guns in a yard.
When officers arrived, several subjects fled the scene. During a foot pursuit, a 16-year-old male ran from officers and was later found with a gunshot wound to his lower torso and leg. Emergency responders transported the juvenile to South Georgia Medical Center for treatment; his injuries were reported as non-life-threatening.
Initial statements from some on the scene falsely claimed the officer had fired the shot. An internal investigation, including body camera footage, confirmed the officer did not discharge his weapon. The juvenile later admitted he had accidentally shot himself while running.
In total, five individuals were arrested during the incident:
- Treveon Mikael Thomas, 17, and Keshaw Hamilton, 20 – misdemeanor obstruction of an officer.
- Ja’Nyah Renee Fulton, 19 – arrested on unrelated active warrants.
- Artise Omark Jackson, 18, and a 16-year-old juvenile – criminal trespass and obstruction of an officer; Jackson was also charged with providing false identification.
During a search of the residence, officers recovered an AR-15 rifle and two handguns that did not belong to the homeowner. All adults were taken to the Lowndes County Jail, and the Department of Juvenile Justice was notified regarding the juveniles.
Chief Leslie Manahan stated, “We are extremely lucky that during this chaos of young people running with guns, no one received a more serious injury. Those who falsely accused our officer will face prosecution.”
The investigation remains active, with further charges pending.
