Macon-Bibb commissioners discuss youth violence after Carolyn Crayton Park shooting

Commissioners say working together and reaching young people and families are important parts of addressing youth violence.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Multiple people are facing charges in connection with the shooting at Carolyn Crayton Park that injured 12 teenagers.

As the investigation continues, Macon-Bibb County commissioners are discussing what they believe needs to happen next to address youth violence.

Commissioner Donice Bryant says she was in shock when she first heard about the shooting. She says she wants everyone to put their differences aside and work together to find solutions for young people.

“I think that we should all get together and put whatever differences that people have in the community or with each other aside and come up with some solutions for these kids because these are all our kids,” Bryant said.

Bryant says Macon-Bibb County has people with different professional backgrounds and experiences who can work together to help young people. She also says she wants to see a safe space created where young people can spend time together.

Commissioner Andrea Cooke says she felt a deep sense of sadness when she learned about the shooting.

Cooke says several organizations are already working to prevent violence, but more communication and connection are needed.

“More of us are going to have to talk to each other,” Cooke said. “A lot of the work that needs to happen now starts with one person making one change in their own neighborhoods.”

Commissioner Stanley Stewart says he would like to see the Cure Violence program return to Macon and possibly go citywide.

Stewart says addressing youth violence also means reaching young people in their homes and reaching their parents.

“We got to find a way to reach them where they are,” he said. “In other words, we got to find a way to reach them in their homes, reach the parents, and try to make the parents realize that they have a huge stake in this.”