Teen Dies in Accidental Shooting

Paulding County, GA. On Friday, March 8, 2019, at approximately 7:05 PM Deputies responded to 35 Legend Creek Way Douglasville, GA 30134 (Paulding County) reference a teenager that had been accidentally shot. Responders arrived on the scene and attempted to resuscitate the victim, but he had already passed away.
According to Detectives, two teenagers were handling a .22 caliber rifle in a bedroom within the home. While the 14-year-old juvenile was handling the rifle, he accidentally discharged it, striking the 15-year-old in the head. According to responders, the 15-year-old passed away immediately on the scene. The 15-year-old victim, who resided in Alabama, was a friend of the 14-year-old.
The victim has been identified as Matthew Ryan Hubbard (W/M, 15 YOA) of Heflin, Alabama. At this point, no arrests have been made in the case and the investigation is ongoing. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab conducted the autopsy on Saturday.
Sheriff Gary Gulledge remarked, “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 of the families involved in this tragic case.”
The 14 year old Juvenile HAS NOT BEEN CHARGED with any crimes at this time.