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ACCPD investigating rash of weekend crimes

Athens-Clarke County Police are investigating several incidents on Sunday which they say are likely related. A 17-year-old suspect, Edgar Ortiz of Athens, is in custody.

The string of gun-related incidents began at about 4:30 pm on Sunday afternoon, when ACCPD responded to a cal about someone discharging a firearm at Parkview Homes. One witness reported that a suspect pointed a gun at her, and officers located a car which had been damaged by gunfire.

Shortly after that, ACCPD responded to a call about an attempted armed robbery in the Newton Street/Waddell Street area. The suspect allegedly threatened a 21-year-old man with a gun and demanded money. That victim was not injured, although again, the firearm was discharged.

At 5:40, officers responded to a third call of a shooting on Lake Drive. A 16-year-old victim was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

As authorities were processing the Lake Drive scene, another report came in of an attempted robbery at the Shell station on Tallassee Road. No injuries were reported in the attempted robbery, although again a firearm was discharged. As officers arrived at the gas station, they heard more gunshots coming from a nearby laundromat. An 18-year-old female at that scene sustained non-life-threatening injuries, believed to be from broken glass.

According to an ACCPD statement, officers located the Ortiz and engaged in a vehicle pursuit, followed by a foot chase. Ortiz was arrested and has been charged with several counts of armed robbery and aggravated assault related to the two Tallasee Road incidents. ACCPD officials believe Ortiz is the sole suspect in the Parkview Homes, Newton Street, and Lake Drive incidents as well.

Alexia Ridley joined WUGA as Television and Radio News Anchor and Reporter in 2013. When WUGA TV concluded operations, she became the primary Reporter for WUGA Radio. Alexia came to Athens from Macon where she served as the News Director and show host for WGXA TV. She's a career journalist and Savannah native hailing from the University of Michigan. However, Alexia considers herself an honorary UGA DAWG!