Crime
13-Year-Old Derron Woody Fatally Shot During After-School Altercation in DeKalb County
DEKALB COUNTY, GA – Authorities have identified the middle school student who was fatally shot during an after-school altercation as 13-year-old Derron Woody.
In a letter to families on Friday, DeKalb Alternative School Principal Terrence Harvey confirmed Woody’s passing and extended condolences to his family and friends.
A crisis intervention team was made available at the school to provide grief counseling for students and staff.
The shooting occurred around 4:30 p.m. Thursday in the 4800 block of Glenwood Road.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a juvenile male suffering from a gunshot wound. Woody was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
According to police, another middle school student was taken into custody for questioning, but no charges have been filed at this time.
Investigators are working to determine what led to the altercation and how it escalated to gunfire.
Woody’s father believes his son was attempting to flee when he was shot. His family described him as an avid gamer and shared cherished photos from his fifth-grade graduation in 2023.
As they prepare for his funeral, the family has launched a fundraiser to assist with burial expenses.
Those wishing to contribute can do so via their GoFundMe campaign.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the shooting to contact DeKalb police or submit an anonymous tip through the free Tip411 app by texting “DKPD” to 847411, followed by the tip.
MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Authorities have confirmed that a suspect is in custody following a shooting incident at the Meridian Mall on Friday afternoon.
As a result, the lockdown at the mall has been lifted.
The Meridian Township Police Department issued a public advisory just before 2:00 p.m., urging residents and shoppers to avoid the area near the Dick’s Sporting Goods entrance while officers conducted an active investigation at the scene.
At this time, police have not released specific details regarding the nature of the shooting, including whether anyone was injured or the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s arrest.
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the incident and are expected to provide additional information as it becomes available.
The public is asked to remain clear of the immediate area to allow for the ongoing investigation.