A night that began as a high school prom in Fitzgerald, Georgia, ended in tragedy when 15-year-old Chyell Paulk was fatally shot at an after-prom gathering. The shooting occurred about 1:10 a.m. on April 28, 2024, in the 300 block of East Pine Street. Paulk, an honor roll student and cheerleader at Irwin County High School, was struck in her right side as she and friends tried to leave after an altercation; she was taken to a local hospital and later died. Three others—a 19-year-old and two minors—were also wounded.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation assisted the Fitzgerald Police Department. A 17-year-old, Channen Brown, was arrested and charged with one count of felony murder, three counts of aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony; under state law he may be tried as an adult. Investigators say the probe remains active and that at least one other person believed to have been involved is being sought.

If anyone witnessed the after-prom gathering or has information about who else was involved, please share what is known with investigators.