Families in Smyrna's Afton Downs and Woodbury Townhomes were jolted awake early Sunday by a terrifying burst of gunfire that shattered windows, struck homes, and forced parents and children to shelter in place. Now, residents are demanding answers—not just about the violence itself, but also about what they describe as delayed and discourteous responses from 911 dispatchers and slow police arrival.
Homes and Cars Riddled with Bullets
The shooting took place between 2:30 and 2:40 a.m. on Sunday, May 4. Multiple homes and vehicles were hit, including one bullet that narrowly missed the crib of a 5-month-old baby. “Not only is there broken glass scattered across the grounds, the hearts of our neighborhood is broken,” said Latasha Pearson, a resident of Afton Downs, who made her first 911 call at 2:43 a.m., followed by three more calls within 20 minutes.
No injuries or fatalities were reported, but damage to property was significant. A shattered car window and visible bullet holes in homes underscored the severity of the situation. Police have confirmed three arrests and stated the investigation is ongoing. Officials say they are exploring whether the attack was targeted.
Frustration with Police Response
Several residents voiced concerns over both emergency response times and dispatcher behavior. “We waited 20 minutes for anyone to show up and we don't feel safe,” said Dominic DiCristofano, a Woodbury resident. Pearson said her daughters were “terrified in that basement, waiting for you to come and no one was showing up.”
Beyond the response time, neighbors described feeling brushed off by emergency dispatchers. Jasmine Bush, of 1015 Afton Way, summed up the mood: “Someone was targeted.”
City Officials Promise Action
During a city town hall meeting on May 5, Mayor Pro Tem Tim Gould and Councilmember Latonia Hines sought to reassure residents. “That should not happen,” said Gould. Hines added, “I would be absolutely mortified if I have shots coming through.”
Councilmember Glenn Pickens will coordinate with HOA leaders from Afton Downs and Woodbury to schedule a follow-up town hall with Smyrna Police. In the meantime, police say they will increase patrols in the neighborhoods as resources allow.
Community members have asked for improved lighting, better 911 responsiveness, security cameras, and increased police visibility. Lieutenant Hanson of the Smyrna Police Department encouraged anyone with video footage or information to come forward.
Lingering Trust Issues
While Afton Downs hasn’t seen gun violence in recent memory, some residents say this latest incident highlights deeper problems—including insufficient HOA communication, past unresolved crimes like break-ins, and concerns over Airbnb-style rentals.
“I don't want to die without knowing why I’m dying,” said Woodbury resident Vin Dharawat, capturing a feeling of fear and helplessness echoed across the two communities.
As the investigation continues, residents hope Sunday’s close call becomes a turning point—not just for safety, but for restoring trust.
