GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — A 17-year-old teen has died after being struck by a bullet that traveled through the wall of a motel room where he was staying, authorities said. The incident occurred Thursday night at the Live In Lodge Extended Stay on Stone Mountain Highway.

Gwinnett County Police Department officers responded to the scene around 11 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the teen suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed he had been playing video games in his motel room prior to being struck.

Investigators identified 31-year-old Shermarcus Cochran, who was staying in a neighboring room, as the person who fired the shot. Police said Cochran told detectives he had been cleaning a firearm after visiting a gun range when the weapon accidentally discharged, sending a bullet through the wall into the teen’s room.

Cochran has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and reckless conduct. Gwinnett County police emphasized that the incident is being treated as a criminal case due to the fatal consequences of the firearm discharge. Investigators are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the gun handling and safety measures in place at the time.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact Gwinnett County detectives at (770) 513-5300. Police said tips from the public could help clarify details of the incident and provide insight into how the tragedy occurred.

The community has expressed shock over the accident, highlighting the dangers of improperly handled firearms. Gwinnett County officials continue to urge safe firearm practices and the importance of supervision when handling weapons. This tragic event has left family, friends, and neighbors mourning the loss of a young life taken in an unexpected accident.