FOREST PARK SHOOTING | June 3, 2025 

FOREST PARK SHOOTING | June 3, 2025 

Forest Park, GA— A celebratory evening was shattered by violence on Tuesday night as a shooting near Kiwanis Stadium in Forest Park disrupted a high school graduation and sent two people to the hospital. Forest Park Police Chief Brandon Criss confirmed that officers responded to reports of gunfire around 7:30 p.m. in the area of South Avenue, directly across from the stadium where the graduation was taking place.

Upon arrival, officers discovered two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds near a soccer field adjacent to the stadium. One victim had been shot in the arm, while the other sustained a graze wound. Both were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities say their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

The shooting occurred while a local school had rented the stadium for a graduation ceremony, creating a terrifying scene as attendees scrambled for safety amid the sound of gunfire. Although the event was immediately paused, police have not confirmed whether any of the victims or suspects were connected to the graduation.

“It’s unclear at this time whether this was related to the graduation, or just happened nearby,” Chief Criss told reporters. “We’re still gathering details, and our primary concern right now is the safety of the community and locating the suspects.”

Police say two suspects fled the scene and are currently on the run. No suspect descriptions have been released at this time, and investigators are urging anyone with video footage or information from the scene to come forward.

The area near the soccer field remains an active investigation site, with officers collecting evidence and speaking with witnesses. Graduation attendees and community members have expressed shock and concern over the violence, especially during what should have been a joyous occasion celebrating students’ achievements.

Forest Park Police Department is asking anyone who may have seen something suspicious or has any information to call their tip line or Crime Stoppers. The Clayton County School District has not yet issued a public statement but is expected to address the incident soon.

As the investigation continues, officials are working to determine the motive behind the shooting and ensure the suspects are quickly brought to justice.