A shocking and disturbing incident unfolded at the Mall of Georgia on Saturday, leaving a 15-year-old high school student injured and an 18-year-old arrested for the shooting. The victim, identified as Joel Bradford, a sophomore at Grayson High School, was rushed to the hospital for treatment after sustaining a gunshot wound.
According to eyewitnesses, gunfire erupted shortly before 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 4, sending shoppers and mall employees into a state of panic. An officer working security at the mall quickly responded to the scene, hearing the gunfire and rushing towards the source of the sound.
As the officer arrived, the suspect, 18-year-old Khaden Javir Williams of DeKalb County, was seen attempting to flee the scene. Williams was promptly apprehended and taken into custody. The investigation revealed that Williams had allegedly fired the shot that struck Bradford, leaving him injured.
Bradford, a standout athlete at Grayson High School, is a star running back for the varsity football team and also plays point guard for the varsity basketball team. The 15-year-old athlete has already garnered attention from top college football programs, including the Georgia Bulldogs and Pittsburgh Panthers.
As news of the shooting spread, the community rallied around Bradford and his family, offering support and well-wishes for his recovery. A fundraiser has been established to help the family with medical expenses and other related costs.
Meanwhile, Williams is facing serious charges, including aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. He is currently being held without bond as the investigation continues.
The incident has raised concerns about public safety and the prevalence of gun violence in the community. Authorities are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and to ensure that justice is served.
As the community comes to terms with this disturbing incident, the focus remains on supporting Bradford and his family during this challenging time. The young athlete's road to recovery is expected to be long and arduous, but with the outpouring of support and well-wishes, he is expected to make a full recovery.
