Atlanta, Georgia, October 23, 2025
News Summary
A 16-year-old suspect was arrested for firing a gun near Booker T. Washington High School, prompting significant police response and lockdowns. The incident occurred at a Texaco gas station, where the suspect fired a round towards officers before fleeing. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and police deployed numerous units, including SWAT and K-9 teams. Students were placed on lockdown and instructed to shelter in place until the area was secured. Multiple charges are pending against the juvenile suspect as investigations continue.
Atlanta, Georgia – A 16-year-old suspect was arrested after firing a gun near Booker T. Washington High School on Wednesday evening, prompting significant police response and lockdowns in the vicinity. The incident occurred around 6:10 p.m. near a Texaco gas station on Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard.
Officers had approached several suspicious individuals when the suspect displayed a gun and fired one round towards them. Following the gunfire, the suspect fled into a nearby unoccupied property. Fortunately, no officers or civilians were injured, and police did not return fire during the incident.
A large SWAT response was dispatched to the area, comprising multiple specialized police units, including K-9, homicide, and drone teams. A perimeter was quickly established, extending from the Texaco gas station to Morris Brown College and surrounding neighborhoods.
The school was placed on lockdown due to the nearby gunfire, coinciding with a scheduled homecoming coronation event. Parents rushed to the high school as students remained locked down inside, with many expressing concerns for their children’s safety.
During the lockdown, students reported that police entered the school armed with long guns and instructed them to find a safe place to shelter. The situation remained tense until SWAT officers secured the area and safely took the teenager into custody without further incident.
Multiple charges are pending against the suspect as investigations continue. The identity of the juvenile suspect is likely to remain confidential due to his age. Parents expressed relief when their children were confirmed safe, although authorities did not immediately explain the cause of the lockdown.
Police are still investigating the circumstances leading up to the shooting and whether any additional individuals were involved in the incident.
FAQ
What incident occurred near Booker T. Washington High School?
A 16-year-old suspect was arrested after firing a gun near Booker T. Washington High School on Wednesday evening.
When did the incident happen?
The incident occurred around 6:10 p.m. near a Texaco gas station on Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard.
What response did the police have to the incident?
A large SWAT response and multiple specialized police units, including K-9, homicide, and drone teams, were deployed to the area. A perimeter was quickly established.
Was anyone injured during the incident?
No officers or civilians were injured during the incident, and police did not return fire.
What happened to the students during the lockdown?
Students reported that police entered the school with long guns and instructed them to find a safe place to shelter until the area was secured.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Gunfire |
| Suspect Age | 16-years-old |
| Location | Near Booker T. Washington High School |
| Time of Incident | 6:10 p.m. |
| Police Response | SWAT, K-9, homicide, drone teams deployed |
| Lockdown Duration | Until area was secured |
| Injuries | No injuries reported |
| Pending Charges | Multiple charges against the suspect |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Booker T. Washington High School
- CBS News
- Google Search: Booker T. Washington High School
- WSBTV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School
- CNN
- Google News: Emory University shooting
- Georgia Recorder
- Google Scholar: Shooting incidents in schools
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
