16-year-old shot by Gwinnett police after firing at officers outside apartments, officials say

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Gwinnett police shot a 16-year-old accused of firing a gun at officers Friday morning.

The shooting happened at an apartment complex off Chase Lane in Gwinnett County.

Police told Channel 2′s Tom Regan that a woman called 911 around 6:30 a.m. saying her son was under the influence of drugs and had a gun.

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When officers arrived, they confronted the 16-year-old and said they tried to get the teen to drop his weapon.

The teen started firing at officers and hit several cars in the parking lot.

Police returned fire and shot him in the leg.

Police said the teen’s injuries are non-life threatening. No officers were injured.

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Witnesses told Regan they were startled by the gunfire early Friday morning.

“When we heard the shooting, I just put my son on the floor because they were like very close,” one parent who wanted to remain anonymous said.

Officers found two guns. One was with the teen and another was nearby.

“Certainly we don’t expect to utilize any kind of deadly force on a call, but unfortunately, the officer had to utilize his firearm,” Sgt. Michelle Pihera said.

The teen is currently in the hospital and will face several charges. His identity has not been released.

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