ROCKDALE COUNTY, Ga. — Investigators are searching for a group of attackers they say jumped at least three people in the last week.
Police told Channel 2's Carl Willis they believe the attacks are all connected.
The attacks include one in Rockdale County and two in Conyers.
In one of those cases, the victim told Willis he was not only beaten but shot at.
The 15-year-old, who asked not to be identified, said he was trying to make it home, walking through the woods between two Conyers apartment complexes, when he says a red SUV pulled up and a group inside started shouting demands.
"They asked for the stuff that was on me, like my phone. I said, 'No, go mind your business,' and walked off. They found me and eight of them got out and jumped me," the victim said.
The victim showed Willis scratches he had left over from the attack, including the ones on his face.
Conyers police and the Rockdale County Sheriff's Office told Willis the teen is not alone. They say there were three almost identical attacks in just four days.
"It's disheartening. This is a pretty tight-knit community and the young people here, they're so important to us and we really want them to be safe," said neighbor Kawanna Chandler
The victim said he was approached at an apartment complex off of Sigman Road.
In another attack, an 18-year-old was attacked at a home on Eastview Road and a third young victim ran to a store on Sigman road to call for help.
Police told Willis not only are the attacks connected they also believe they are the work of a gang.
Investigators believe robbery is their motive.
Neighbors like Chandler said they're having talks with their teens.
"Do the buddy system. Stay together and keep your eyes and ears open -- that's all you can do right now," Chandler said.
Police say the attackers are between 15 and 18 years old.
"Hopefully find them all and lock them up," The victim said.
Police say they do not believe the victims in these cases are involved in any gangs.
If you have information on the attackers call please call Conyers police.
WSBTV
