Two Arrested in Gainesville Shooting of 14-Year-Old

On October 30, Gainesville police announced that two people had been arrested in connection with the shooting of a 14-year-old boy three days earlier. Officers responded shortly before 1:30 p.m. on October 27 near Chestnut and Summit streets and found the boy with bullet injuries in his right arm and leg. He was transported to Northeast Georgia Medical Center, where he was in stable condition.

Police said the victim knew one of the suspects and had been involved in a dispute with that person before the shooting. Devaun Henry Peoples, 15, was arrested at a Gainesville hotel on October 29. He faces adult charges of aggravated assault and aggravated battery, and is in custody at Gainesville’s Regional Youth Detention Center.

Tristan Anthony Mize, 20, was arrested October 30. He faces charges of participating in aggravated assault, making false statements and writings, and hindering apprehension. Mize is in custody at the Hall County Jail. Police have not detailed what role they believe each suspect played.

Police Chief Jay Parrish said a troubling trend is apparent in three Gainesville shootings involving teens since July 3. He urged families to stay involved in young people’s lives and guide them away from criminal behavior. Anyone with information can contact Gainesville police at 770-533-5873 or submit an anonymous tip through the city’s website.