On the afternoon of Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the community of Martinez, Georgia, was shaken by a shooting near Lakeside High School, which prompted immediate safety measures and an emergency lockdown at both the high school and its adjacent middle school. While the shooting did not occur on school grounds, the proximity of the incident behind the school near an apartment complex on Riverwatch Parkway created a tense situation for students, faculty, and their families.
As news of the gunfire spread, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office swiftly responded to the scene shortly after 3 p.m. Authorities immediately activated a coordinated search for multiple suspects believed to be involved in the shooting. Law enforcement canvassed the surrounding area, urging local residents to stay vigilant and report any information that might aid the investigation.
Despite the tension, the lockdown procedures were quickly and efficiently carried out by school officials, who followed emergency protocols to secure classrooms and limit movement on campus. Parents were notified promptly, and the staff took swift action to ensure the safety of the students. By evening, law enforcement confirmed that all students were accounted for and unharmed, and the lockdown was lifted after a thorough review of the school and surrounding areas.
The search for the suspects, described as three males, continued into the night, as investigators pursued leads and analyzed evidence collected from the scene. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward, as they work to piece together the details of the incident.
While the incident has left many in the community shaken, the swift response by law enforcement and the safety protocols enacted by school officials ensured that the students were protected from harm. This event has underscored the importance of preparedness, vigilance, and collaboration among law enforcement, schools, and the public to ensure the safety of our children and educators.
As the investigation continues, families and community members are grateful that students were unharmed, but their thoughts are with those affected by the shooting. We offer our support to all those involved, including law enforcement officers working tirelessly to resolve the situation, and extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Lakeside High School staff for their prompt and efficient response. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of community solidarity in the face of uncertainty.
