Argument led to fatal shooting of teen in Troup County, deputies say

Argument ends in deadly Troup County shooting of teen

Troup County Sheriff's Office deputies arrested Hunter Smith on murder charges after 16-year-old passenger Paul Smith was fatally shot during an argument on Simms Road, according to authorities.

TROUP COUNTY, Ga. - A 16-year-old male died Tuesday night after being shot twice during an argument outside a Troup County home, according to the Troup County Sheriff’s Office.

What we know:

Deputies were dispatched at 7:03 p.m. Oct. 13 to the 200 block of Bass Cross Road after a 911 caller reported someone had been shot inside a vehicle. 

First responders found 16-year-old Paul Smith of LaGrange unresponsive with two gunshot wounds, and life-saving measures were started immediately.

Smith was transported to WellStar West Georgia Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries. 

Investigators determined the shooting actually took place at a home on Sims Road. According to deputies, Paul Smith was a passenger in a car that pulled up to the residence Tuesday evening. The teen got out of the car, and an argument broke out with 21-year-old Hunter Smith, who was staying at the house.

Deputies said Hunter Smith opened fire on both the 16-year-old and the driver of the car. As the car sped away, investigators said another shot was fired at the vehicle. Another person inside the car drove Smith away from the scene and called 911. The driver was unhurt.

Investigators arrested 21-year-old Hunter Smith at the Sims Road home just before 10 p.m. without incident. He was taken to the Troup County Jail. Deputies confirmed that despite sharing the same last name, Hunter Smith is not related to the victim.

Hunter Smith is charged with murder, two counts of aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. He is being held at the Troup County Jail without bond.

What we don't know:

Sheriff's officials have not released what specific argument or motive triggered the confrontation outside the home.

Deputies noted that the investigation remains active.