Update -- Police say the child reamins hospitalized but is currently in stable condition. Police had no further updates and are still urging citizens to contact authorities if they have any information.
LAWRENCEVILLE - Gwinnett County police are asking for the public's help in a Saturday evening case that involves the shooting of a Lawrenceville child.
Police Sgt. Jake Smith said at 6:18 p.m., officers were dispatched to Cannonball Court in unincorporated Lawrenceville in response to a "person shot call" involving a 6-year-old boy. The victim, who was noted to have a small wound on his chest, was reportedly "shot with a BB or pellet gun by an unknown person."
The unidentified victim was taken by his mother to a local hosital, with Smith noting the child was able to talk and speak normally at the time of his transportation. Officers on scene were unable to determine the individual responsible for the shooting and turned the investigation over to Gwinnett County detectives.
Upon arrival at the hospital, the boy's injuries were discovered to be more severe than previously believed, with doctors determining he had actually been struck by a small-caliber bullet.
Smith said the victim, who at this point was reported to be in serious condition, was flown from the scene to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. He is expected to survive his injuries.
During the course of the subsequent investigation, detectives learned that the shooting occured during a party that was held in the victim's neighborhood. At last report, no suspects had been taken into custody.
As part of the investigation, detectives are reaching out to the public for thier assistance, seeking any information that may be relevant in the case. Smith said the number to call is 770-513-5300.
For those wishing to remain anonymous, call 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.crimestoppersatlanta.org. Tipsters using this service can receive "up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case."
