Atlanta, GA – Seven men have been arrested in connection with a July 2024 gang-related shooting that tragically claimed the lives of two 13-year-old boys and left an 11-year-old child injured. The shooting occurred during a birthday celebration at an apartment complex in Atlanta’s Oakland City neighborhood, as the victims, including Lamont Freeman and Ja’Kody Davis, were innocent bystanders at a gathering meant to celebrate Freeman’s birthday.

The incident took place on July 2, 2024, at the Spark Street apartment complex, where the children were celebrating. Police reported that Freeman and Davis were killed during the violent attack, while an 11-year-old friend of the boys was injured. According to Atlanta Police Major Crimes Major Pete Malecki, the victims were not involved in gangs and were described as “good kids” who had no connection to the violence that took their lives.

Freeman’s death has especially resonated with the community. Major Ralph Woolfolk of the Atlanta Police Violent Crime Interdiction Unit noted during a press conference that Freeman was only allowed to experience 27 minutes of his teenage years before the tragic shooting. “Lamont Freeman was allowed to be a 13-year-old for 27 minutes before gang violence ultimately took his life,” Woolfolk stated.

Authorities said the shooting was the result of a planned hit orchestrated by a high-ranking gang member currently incarcerated at Hancock State Prison in Sparta. Using a contraband phone, the inmate allegedly directed the attack on a rival gang member and Atlanta rapper who was filming a music video near the birthday celebration. Police described the rapper, who remains unnamed, as a member of the violent gang “Goodfellas.”

“This is a case of grown men playing gangsta, leaving two of our children in graves and the community in fear,” said Woolfolk. “The violence that occurred here was orchestrated by adults in our city, adults who decided to play out their rivalries at the expense of innocent lives.”

The seven arrested individuals have been charged with a variety of offenses, including murder, aggravated assault, and possession of marijuana. Five of the suspects were already in custody on unrelated charges at the time of their connection to the shooting, while two others, Tradon Crawford and Ali Caldwell, were arrested more recently.

Among those arrested were brothers Tradon and Markus Crawford, both aged 31 and 34, respectively. The others facing charges include DeKeitheon Mobley, 24; Markus Crawford, 34; Quiyontay Sanders, 36; Reginald Thomas, 38; and Richard Hollis, 24. Investigators have stated that they will continue their efforts to hold all those involved in the planning and execution of the shooting accountable.

“The overall theme of this case is the loss of two children to a senseless act of violence,” said FBI Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown. “No family should have to bury their 13-year-old children.”

The Atlanta Police Department has also issued a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to further arrests or details that could aid in the investigation. As the case continues, police are determined to bring justice to the families affected by the shooting and send a clear message to those involved in the ongoing violence in the city.

The community remains shaken by the loss, but officials are hopeful that these arrests will help bring closure and deter further violence in the area.