10-Year-Old Shot in Targeted Atlanta Home Shooting

Child now stable after emergency surgery, police say

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A 10-year-old child was shot and critically injured during a targeted shooting at a home in southeast Atlanta early Sunday morning. Police say the child underwent emergency surgery and is now in stable condition. Authorities believe the shooting was connected to an escalating dispute between two parties, with three suspects firing multiple shots from outside the home, which had five people inside including four other children under 10 years old.

Why it matters

Shootings involving children are especially alarming and tragic incidents that raise concerns about public safety and the need for stronger community-based violence prevention efforts. This case highlights the ongoing gun violence challenges facing Atlanta neighborhoods.

The details

According to police, officers responded to a report of shots fired on Ruzelle Drive SE just before 6:45 a.m. on Sunday. They found the 10-year-old boy suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest and in critical condition. Officers immediately rendered aid, applying a chest seal, and transported the child to the hospital in a patrol vehicle. Investigators believe three suspects exited a silver sedan, approached the home, and fired multiple shots from outside into the residence, causing extensive damage.

  • The incident occurred just before 6:45 a.m. on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Atlanta Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the shooting incident.

Deputy Chief Prenzinna Spann

A spokesperson for the Atlanta Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division who praised the officers' quick response in rendering aid to the child.

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What they’re saying

“Our officers saw the child was in critical condition and acted immediately to save his life. Their actions made a difference.”

— Deputy Chief Prenzinna Spann (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Police are searching for three suspects and a silver sedan believed to be connected to the shooting. Authorities have not confirmed the relationship, if any, between the suspects and the people inside the home. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

The takeaway

This tragic incident involving a child caught in the crossfire of gun violence underscores the urgent need for community-based solutions to address the root causes of crime and prevent such senseless acts from occurring in the future.