14-Year-Old Mistakenly Shoots, Kills 15-Year-Old In Douglasville

DOUGLASVILLE, GA — A 14-year-old accidentally shot and killed a 15-year-old as they handled a rifle in Douglasville, Paulding County, Friday, according to the Paulding County Sheriff's Office.

The victim has been identified as Matthew Ryan Hubbard, 15, of Heflin, Alabama.

On Friday, at approximately 7:05 p.m., deputies responded to 35 Legend Creek Way Douglasville, Paulding County, in reference to a teenager that had been accidentally shot. Responders arrived at the scene and attempted to resuscitate Hubbard, but he had already passed away.

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According to detectives, two teenagers were handling a .22 caliber rifle in a bedroom within the home. While the 14-year-old was handling the rifle, he accidentally discharged it, striking Hubbard in the head.

According to responders, Hubbard passed away immediately on the scene. Hubbard, who resided in Alabama, was a friend of the 14-year-old.

At this point, no arrests have been made in the case and the investigation is ongoing, police said.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab conducted the autopsy Saturday.

Sheriff Gary Gulledge said, “This young man was taken from the world way too soon. Gun safety is everyone’s responsibility. Please remember to always keep guns and ammunition locked in a safe place and out of the reach of children. God bless all the families involved in this tragic case.”