A 15-year-old boy is in custody following a fatal shooting in Thomasville, Georgia, that claimed the life of Edward “Eddie” Haygood and temporarily placed a nearby elementary school on lockdown. The incident unfolded late Tuesday morning on Fern Street, just two blocks from Harper Elementary School.
The Thomasville Police Department (TPD) responded to the scene after receiving alerts from FLOCK cameras, 911 calls, and reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers discovered Haygood with multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency responders administered first aid before transporting him to Archbold Memorial Hospital. Despite their efforts, Haygood succumbed to his injuries later that evening.
The juvenile suspect was apprehended around 11 p.m. the same day in the 300 block of Fern Street. He is now facing several charges, including murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Authorities have yet to disclose a motive or any details about the relationship between the suspect and the victim.
Harper Elementary School was placed on lockdown as a precaution shortly after the shooting due to its proximity to the scene. Parents and staff were notified through a post on the Thomasville City Schools Facebook page. The lockdown was lifted two hours later, and no threats were reported involving the school.
The tragic death of Haygood has left the Thomasville community in shock, particularly given the involvement of a juvenile suspect. The incident has raised concerns about youth violence and safety in neighborhoods near schools.
The TPD continues to investigate the events leading up to the shooting and is encouraging anyone with information to come forward by contacting the department at 229-227-3302.
This heartbreaking case serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address violence in communities and support initiatives aimed at preventing such tragedies. As the investigation unfolds, the Thomasville community mourns the loss of Eddie Haygood while grappling with the troubling implications of the suspect’s young age.