By Joe Johnson
Gang gun violence has made its way into downtown Athens.
Usually contained to outlying neighborhoods where gang members live, the chattering of people enjoying the area’s vibrant nightlife was shattered late the night of Aug. 25, when Athens-Clarke County police said an altercation in the 300 block of East Clayton Street erupted into a shooting that injured a 17-year-old victim from Winterville.
The incident occurred one year after a gang shooting at East Clayton and North Jackson streets injured seven victims that ranged in age from 19 to 29.
A subsequent indictment charged four members of the Blood Trey Nine street gang were charged in a 17-count indictment for a shootout with members of the rival Roadrunners gang, which is associated with the Gangster Disciples, according to Clarke County Superior Court records.
The teen was who was shot in the same general area last month was transported to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries to his hands and feet, according to police.
At the scene, police said they arrested the suspected shooter, 23-year-old Miquan Terrell Pittard of Bailey Street, who was identified in an arrest warrant as a member of the Red Tape street gang.
He was charged with seven counts of violation of the Georgia Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act; two counts of aggravated assault; robbery; and possession with intent to distribute; and a felony probation violation.
Police said they seized a vehicle that contained “numerous” firearms.
During the ensuing investigation, police said they also arrested the following suspects:
Antonio Lanier Thomas, 23, of Monroe, on three counts of violating the ant-gang statute and two counts of aggravated assault, and robbery.
Jyterious Markize Turner, 25, of Huntington Court, on five counts of violating the anti- gang act; two counts of aggravated assault; robbery; possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II substance and possession of a firearm During the Commission of a felony.
Raekwon Damon Smith, 23, of Linda Avenue, on three counts of violating the anti-gang statute; two counts of aggravated assault; and robbery.
Jaylan Martin, 17, of Herman Street, on four counts of violating the anti-street gang act; two counts of aggravated assault; robbery; and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Photo for Jaylan Martin was unavailable on Thursday.
According to police on Thursday, the investigation remained ongoing and additional arrests were expected.
Police asked for anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact ACCPD at 762-400-7117 or gangunit@accgov.com.