LaGrange Shooting Claims Life of Javen Dukes, Six Others Injured in Early Morning Tragedy
LAGRANGE, Georgia — In the early hours of Sunday, June 8, 2025, the quiet of a LaGrange neighborhood was shattered by a hail of gunfire, resulting in the death of 19-year-old Javen Dukes and injuries to six others in what police are describing as a tragic and violent incident.
The shooting occurred around 1:00 a.m. at 105 Seminary Street, a residential area near downtown LaGrange. Officers from the LaGrange Police Department were dispatched to the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots. Upon arrival, they encountered a chaotic and deeply unsettling scene: seven individuals, all suffering from gunshot wounds, lay injured.
Emergency medical personnel were immediately called to the scene and provided urgent care before transporting all victims to WellStar West Georgia Medical Center. Sadly, Javen Dukes was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His death has sent ripples of grief through the local community and among his loved ones.
The six other victims have been identified as:
- Montija Hand
- Aja Pruitt
- Jerdarious Blackmon
- Shakayla Cofield
- Titus Dunlap
- Ayonna Leonard
Their current medical conditions have not been fully disclosed, but authorities have confirmed that some have since been treated and released, while others remain hospitalized under medical supervision.
The Criminal Investigations Division of the LaGrange Police Department has launched an intensive investigation into the shooting. As of now, no suspects have been publicly identified, and the motive remains unclear. Investigators are working around the clock, conducting interviews, collecting forensic evidence, and reviewing nearby surveillance footage to determine what led to this deadly incident.
“This level of violence is both senseless and deeply troubling,” said a spokesperson for the LaGrange Police Department. “We are doing everything in our power to piece together what happened and ensure those responsible are held accountable. Our hearts go out to the family of Javen Dukes and the other victims affected by this tragedy.”
Residents in the area have expressed shock and concern, as the Seminary Street neighborhood has not historically been known for such violent incidents. Community leaders are calling for peace and cooperation with law enforcement to prevent further acts of violence.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward. Even the smallest detail may be crucial to the investigation. Members of the public are encouraged to contact Detective Randazzo at 706-883-2684.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the Tip411 system by using the mobile app, accessing the online portal, or texting the keyword LAGRANGE to 847411.