Gang-Related Shootings in Marietta Leave Three Teens Injured, Multiple Young Suspects Arrested

ATLANTA, Ga. — A series of gang-related shootings in Marietta has left three teenagers injured and multiple young suspects facing serious charges. Marietta police say the incidents, which occurred just days apart in April, are linked to escalating tensions between two rival neighborhood gangs.

The first shooting took place on the night of April 19, when four people were fired upon while walking on Natchez Trace near Powder Springs Street. One teen was hit twice and rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Authorities report he is still recovering from his injuries.

Just two days later, on April 21, another group of four individuals came under gunfire while walking near Allgood Road and North Marietta Parkway. In this second attack, two teens were wounded and hospitalized with serious injuries, though they too are now recovering.

After a week-long investigation, police arrested 17-year-old Xavier Moreno, charging him with 11 felonies and three misdemeanors in connection with the shootings. He has also been charged under Georgia’s Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act and remains in custody. Investigators confirmed on Monday that Moreno played a role in both shootings, which authorities say stem from disputes between two “non-traditional hybrid neighborhood gangs.”

Police have also arrested four additional suspects in connection with the first shooting:

• Isiah Sexton, 20
• Jemaaree Marion, 17
• Jordan Almestica, 17
• An unnamed juvenile suspect

All four are from Marietta and face four felony charges of aggravated assault with intent to murder. The 17-year-olds, Marion and Almestica, are being prosecuted as adults and, along with Sexton, were booked into the Cobb County Adult Detention Center. The juvenile suspect was taken to the Cobb County Youth Detention Center.

Authorities believe these were targeted shootings, driven by gang-related retaliation, and not random acts of violence. The attacks, both occurring in residential areas, have sparked renewed concerns from community members about youth involvement in gangs and the rise in teen gun violence.

In a statement, the Marietta Police Department said, “These acts of violence are deeply concerning, especially involving teenagers. We are committed to fully investigating these incidents and holding those responsible accountable under the law.”

Moreno’s charges under the state’s anti-gang statute could carry significant penalties if convicted. The case has highlighted the presence of loosely organized but dangerous gangs operating in local neighborhoods.

Community leaders and local organizations are calling for increased intervention and prevention efforts to steer at-risk youth away from gang activity. Several schools and nonprofits in Cobb County have begun offering expanded programs aimed at conflict resolution, mentorship, and outreach.

Though arrests have been made, the investigation remains ongoing. Police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward, hoping to prevent further violence and bring peace to the affected neighborhoods.

As the teens injured in these attacks continue their recovery, the community is left grappling with the impact of violence involving some of its youngest members — and searching for ways to ensure a safer future for all.