WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — A recent string of shootings has left the Warner Robins community on edge, as city leaders and residents call for immediate action to curb the violence.
In the most recent incident, a drive-by shooting wounded four people, further heightening concerns over rising gun violence. Mayor LaRhonda Patrick condemned the violence.
"Violence is not the answer," Patrick said. "When there is violence, there are major consequences. We've got to find a way to resolve dispute resolution in a way that is peaceful and practical."
The shootings have rocked parts of the city, and many residents, including community activist Reverend Rutha Jackson, believe the issues stem from a lack of positive role models and leadership for the city's youth.
Jackson said she thinks that establishing a stronger connection with young people could help prevent future incidents.
“We have got to get in the community, even if we don’t do anything but walk and talk to the parents,” Jackson said. "The choices they’re making to do drive-by shootings, to me, that’s cowardly. You can make it if you channel that energy into something positive."
Jackson and other activists are urging city leaders to take stronger action and provide more resources for youth development programs. Patrick echoed this sentiment, saying the city must focus on creating opportunities for young people.
"The real solution is going to be making a connection with the youth that have a lack of opportunity, lack of resources and showing them they have access to all of these things,” Patrick said. “You could find yourself with a kid that had a perfect upbringing and they're on the wrong side of the law. So there's no magic wand when it comes to that.”
While the Warner Robins Police Department continues to investigate the most recent shooting, officials say they are following multiple leads and asking anyone with information to come forward. The department is working closely with community leaders to find solutions and address the concerns of residents.
Two weeks ago, two teens were arrested after a shooting in the same area. Patrick said she acknowledged the toll these shootings have taken on the city, but remains hopeful that change is possible.
“We’ve got to do some proactive solutions regarding our youth and crime in our city,” she said.
As Warner Robins grapples with this wave of violence, leaders like Patrick and Jackson are determined to find ways to end the cycle and bring peace to the community.