A teenage girl was shot in the back Friday night in the Oakwood area, apparently at the hands of another teenager who had recently escaped juvenile custody.
Hall County Sheriff's Deputy Nicole Bailes said the incident unfolded as four teenagers were traveling down Candler Highway near Tanner's Mill Road around 8 p.m.
Bailes said Sergio Salamanca, 17, was in the back seat of the vehicle playing with a handgun. Salamanca discharged one round, which hit the front seat passenger in the back.
Bailes said the teens tried to take their injured friend to the Quick Care off Shallowford Road in Oakwood, but found the business was closed when they arrived. At that point, according to Bailes, the teens flagged down an Oakwood police officer for help, and Salamanca ran from the scene.
The shooting victim was taken to Northeast Georgia Medical Center where she underwent emergency surgery for her injuries. As of Saturday morning, there was no word on her condition.
Bailes said investigators learned Salamanca was wanted by the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) for escape. Deputies tried tracking the suspect with K9 officers, but could not find him. Later in the evening, patrol deputies found Salamanca and arrested him.
At last report, Salamanca remained in the Hall County Jail, charged with reckless conduct. Bailes said other charges are possible.
