LaGrange leaders address violent week, announce increased enforcement and updates on ongoing investigations
City leaders in LaGrange are calling for community unity and cooperation following a series of violent incidents that have left two people dead and another seriously injured.
Mayor Jim Arrington addresses the community at press conference on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. (Image/Colin Scroggins)
During a Wednesday afternoon press conference, Mayor Jim Arrington, alongside the LaGrange Police Department, addressed growing concerns and outlined steps being taken to combat the recent violence.
“Our community is hurting… we’re grieving the tragic loss of life… and the fear and disruption caused by this violence is very real,” Arrington said. “This should not be happening in our city. This violence must stop.”
Double homicide investigation
The press conference comes just days after a deadly shooting at the Cameron Crossing Apartment Complex on Meadow Terrace.
According to police, officers responded around 5:35 p.m. Monday to reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found 26-year-old Jakhala Moss in the parking lot suffering from a gunshot wound. While rendering aid, officers were alerted to a second victim inside the apartment.
Inside, officers located 18-year-old Jamarcus Kennedy, who had been shot after attempting to escape the gunfire. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators say two male suspects approached the apartment on foot, opened fire, and fled the area.
Police indicated the shooting may not have been random.
Police Chief Garrett Fiveash addresses the community at press conference on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. (Image/Colin Scroggins)
“We do know that there was a potential relationship… a familiarization of sorts,” Police Chief Garrett Fiveash said, noting the investigation is still ongoing.
Authorities say detectives are actively reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and pursuing all leads.
“We’re doing everything possible to identify and locate those responsible,” Fiveash said. “Our detectives are working video, potential witnesses, and following every lead.”
Officials are urging the public to come forward with any information.
“No matter how small you think the information might be… you have no idea how important it could be,” Fiveash said.
Gang activity a concern
During the briefing, officials revealed that gang activity may be playing a role in recent violence.
“Our major concern… is gangs are a part of this. I’ll just be very frank about it,” Fiveash said.
Authorities described how minor disputes can escalate into deadly encounters.
“You play the wrong song… you said something… you’re wearing something I don’t like… and you want to shoot someone over it,” Fiveash said. “This is an act of cowards… people who have no care or concern for human life.”
Increased enforcement and crime suppression efforts
In response, the LaGrange Police Department is increasing enforcement efforts across the city.
LaGrange police cruiser sits at headquarters on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. (Image/Colin Scroggins)
Officials announced the early launch of a summer crime suppression unit, which will place additional officers in high-crime areas to focus on gang activity, weapons violations, and violent crime.
School resource officers are also being reassigned to assist with patrols while school is out.
“If you commit a traffic violation, be prepared to be stopped… we’re not going to tolerate it,” Fiveash said “We’re about to start getting in some folks’ business… it’s gone on too long already.”
Authorities also confirmed they are working with state partners, including the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Gang Task Force, to assist with ongoing investigations.
Update on brutal Turner Street assault
Officials also provided an update on a separate violent assault that occurred Sunday night on Turner Street.
Police say 67-year-old L.B. Hubbard was severely beaten, suffering serious head and facial injuries. He remains hospitalized and unable to provide a statement.
Police issue update on Turner Street assault on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. (Image/Colin Scroggins)
Authorities confirmed there is progress in that case.
“We have made an identification… and we do have a warrant secured for his arrest, and we’re looking for him as we speak,” Fiveash said.
Community involvement emphasized
Leaders stressed that addressing the violence will require community involvement.
“This is not just a law enforcement issue — it’s a community issue… we must come together as neighbors, as family, as a community,” Mayor Arrington said.
Police also highlighted concerns about children being present at crime scenes.
“It takes a parent… knowing where your kids are and who they’re with,” Fiveash said. “It’s alarming to us when we’re at a crime scene and see young kids standing there watching… that takes a parent to say, ‘you need to come inside.’”
Councilwoman Ameia Williams addresses the community at press conference on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. (Image/Colin Scroggins)
District 2 Councilwoman Ameia Williams echoed the call for action and unity.
“This has truly broken our hearts… we are devastated,” Williams said. “If you know something, please say something. Being quiet is dangerous.”
Any information could help
Officials emphasized that community tips are critical to solving these cases.
Residents can submit anonymous information through the Tip411 system, including photos and videos.
“Even the smallest detail could help solve these crimes,” police said, noting past cases have been solved using seemingly minor tips.
Ongoing shots fired investigation
Police confirmed multiple shooting-related calls have been reported since Monday’s incident, though not all resulted in confirmed crime scenes.
Authorities say all investigations remain active, and additional resources are being dedicated to prevent further violence.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the LaGrange Police Department or submit an anonymous tip at Tip411 or by texting LAGRANGE to 847411. To watch the entire press conference, click here.
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