The Rome Police Department is actively investigating two separate overnight shootings that occurred at large gatherings this past weekend, leaving multiple individuals injured and prompting intensified efforts by the department’s Criminal Investigations Division (CID). The incidents transpired on Saturday, July 26, and extended into the early hours of Sunday, July 27, straining emergency resources and raising public safety concerns.

Incident 1 – E 11th Street Shooting

On Saturday evening, July 26, officers in the vicinity of E 2nd Avenue and E 9th Street reported hearing what sounded like rifle-caliber gunfire. Shortly thereafter, 911 dispatchers began receiving multiple calls reporting a shooting near 106 E 11th Street.

Responding officers quickly arrived to find a scene consistent with gunfire, though the crowd had largely dispersed. Personal effects, including a speaker, a table, a backpack, and a cell phone, were found in the area, along with at least one shell casing. Witnesses stated the shooting occurred during a “back-to-school” party attended by numerous individuals. While several witnesses were identified and interviewed, no injuries were reported in connection with this incident. The investigation is ongoing and being handled by the RPD Criminal Investigation Division.

Incident 2 – Hardy Avenue Shooting

In the early morning hours of Sunday, July 27, at approximately 2:19 a.m., officers conducting foot patrol on Hardy Avenue responded to gunfire emanating from a large party at 516 Hardy Avenue. This residence is reportedly known to law enforcement for frequent disturbances and was hosting a gathering of over 100 individuals at the time.

Upon hearing shots, officers immediately converged on the scene and located three gunshot victims. Two women sustained leg injuries, and an additional victim was found closer to Grover Street. Officers provided immediate aid, applying tourniquets to the injured, and directed EMS personnel to the victims based on the severity of their injuries. All three individuals were transported for medical treatment.

During the subsequent investigation, the host of the party, Marvin Blackburn, became combative and uncooperative. After repeated commands to vacate the property, Mr. Blackburn allegedly threatened officers and physically resisted arrest. He was eventually subdued with a Taser and taken into custody.

A second individual, identified as Sammya Sewell, was also arrested for obstructing officers and failing to comply with commands as police attempted to secure the chaotic scene.

Marvin Blackburn has been charged with:

• Three counts of Felony Obstruction
• Two counts of Misdemeanor Obstruction
• Three counts of Simple Battery on a Police Officer
• Maintaining a Disorderly House

Sammya Sewell was charged with Misdemeanor Obstruction.

Kelly Madden, Public Information Officer for the Rome Police Department, underscored the gravity of the situations. “These types of incidents not only put lives at risk but also place an incredible burden on emergency resources,” Madden stated. “We are committed to maintaining public safety, and we encourage our residents to report suspicious activity and to avoid hosting or attending gatherings that pose a risk to the community.”

The Rome Police Department urges anyone with information related to either incident to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 706-238-5121.