On January 17, 2026, the Lovejoy Police Department responded to a shooting call in the 2500 block of Lovejoy Crossing Lane.
Upon arrival, officers located a juvenile suffering from gunshot wounds to the face and neck, seated in the front passenger seat of a vehicle. The suspect fired into the vehicle, striking the victim, and then fled the scene.
Lovejoy Police detectives identified Lequan Stephens as the shooter and obtained aggravated assault warrants for his arrest. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) also secured warrants for Stephens related to a separate shooting in the 1300 block of Misty Ridge Court.
A coordinated strategic plan was implemented involving multiple law enforcement agencies, simultaneously executing operations at several residences associated with Stephens’ relatives and acquaintances. Law enforcement made it clear that Stephens had no place to hide and would receive no assistance.
Earlier today, Stephens was turned in to the Clayton County Police Department by his father.
The Clayton County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to the Lovejoy Police Department, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Clayton County Police Department, and the United States Marshals Service for their continued partnership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to protecting the community.
