FITZGERALD, Ga. – A 15-year-old high school cheerleader, Chyell Paulk, was shot and killed at a prom after-party in Fitzgerald, Georgia on Sunday, April 28. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is actively looking into the shooting, which also left three other young people injured. The suspect, a 17-year-old minor, is facing charges of felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. The investigation is ongoing.
According to the GBI, the shooting took place in the 300 block of East Pine Street around 1:10 a.m. on Sunday. Police responded to reports of the shooting and the injured victims were immediately rushed to the hospital. Tragically, Chyell Paulk, who had been hit in her right side, was pronounced dead at the hospital. A 19-year-old student and two other minors were also injured in the incident.
The City of Fitzgerald, Georgia implemented a midnight curfew on Monday, April 29, in response to the shooting. The curfew prohibits any minor under the age of 17 from loitering or being unsupervised in public places between midnight and 6 a.m. It is unclear whether the after-prom shooting directly led to the curfew, but the ordinance aims to restrict after-parties.
Principal Jared Luke of Irwin County High School expressed deep sorrow over Chyell’s tragic death, emphasizing her loving spirit and bright smile. Additional counselors will be available on campus to assist students in coping with the loss.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the GBI continues to gather evidence and interview witnesses. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, Chyell’s family remains determined to seek justice for their loved one.