Written by: E. George
Published May 2, 2024 @ 3:45 PM ET
Warning: The following story contains information regarding physical violence against children.
PAULDING COUNTY, Ga. – Shortly after 11:00 PM on Monday, April 29, 2024, an 11-year-old male, an innocent bystander, was shot and killed when a group of suspects fired weapons into his Ruth Way residence, the victim’s father explained. He said everyone who was shot survived except for his son, Zander Whatley.
He asked not to be identified due to the group of young male suspects who have not been apprehended. He said the suspects had a conflict with another of his sons, and when they arrived, banging on their rear door, his son told them he did not want to be involved.
According to Fox 5 Atlanta, Zander’s mother, her husband, and nine children (of their 13) were inside the residence during the shooting.
Whatley’s father stated, “And the next thing we know, we hear gunshots, and we’re all ducking, trying to get out of harm’s way.” Their home’s windows and walls now bear bullet holes.
The victim’s mother said Zander “actually got hit downstairs, running up the steps when a bullet came through and hit him on the side.”
Zander’s father said he and his son believe they know at least one suspect. He stated, “It was two shooters, so we don’t know who the other one was, but they’re looking for them. They’re doing the best they can.”
Zander’s father said one of the older siblings is “friends with two of the guys. The guy who came and shot the house. He was mad because our son is friends with the other guy he was mad at.”
Zander’s grandfather stated, “You gotta be really bold to do something like that. What they need to do is put the guns down. Think for a minute – you’re not going to get away with something like that.”
According to the sheriff’s office, Zander was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. Zander was enrolled at Hutchens Elementary School as a fifth-grader.
According to his mother, “Zander was a happy kid. He’s in student council. He loved going to school. He loved to sing. He loved the Lord. He was a great kid.”
Zander’s father said, “He was a great little kid, man. Something that happened to someone that shouldn’t have even happened.”
The Paulding County Sheriff’s Office stated, “The investigation is in the early stages, and Paulding County detectives are currently in the process of developing leads.” The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is assisting the sheriff’s office with the case.
Authorities are asking the public for any information relevant to this incident. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 770-443-3047 or via the agency’s mobile app, which you can download for free.