Malcolm Freeling was fatally wounded during a gathering at Raymond Head Park as police continued searching for answers.
GRIFFIN, Ga. — The family of Malcolm Freeling is mourning a husband and father of seven as Griffin police investigate the 31-year-old man’s fatal shooting at a city park Saturday night.
Freeling was found with a gunshot wound after officers responded shortly after 10 p.m. July 11 to Raymond Head Park at 800 Anne St. He was taken to Wellstar Spalding Regional Hospital and later pronounced dead, police said.
His death has left relatives facing funeral costs and caring for a large family while investigators work to determine who fired the shot and why. A fundraising campaign created after the shooting describes Freeling as married and the father of seven children.
Griffin residents who spoke publicly after the shooting expressed sympathy for Freeling’s family and concern about gunfire in the community. Police have not said whether the shooting was connected to other reported incidents in Griffin.
Authorities said Freeling was shot during a gathering at the park, but they have released few details about what happened before the gunfire. The size and purpose of the gathering have not been disclosed, and officials have not said whether Freeling attended alone or with relatives or friends.
No suspect has been identified publicly, and investigators have not announced a possible motive. Police also have not said whether Freeling was targeted, caught in an exchange of gunfire or struck under other circumstances.
Officials have not released information about the number of shots fired, the type of firearm involved or whether evidence was recovered from the park. No other injuries were reported in the initial information released by authorities.
The death has placed renewed attention on safety at a public space used for recreation and community gatherings. Still, police have not announced any park restrictions or broader public-safety measures connected to the investigation.
Detectives are continuing to gather information about the shooting. Anyone with information was asked to contact Investigator Berry at 770-229-6452 or jberry@cityofgriffin.com.
Author note: Last updated July 13, 2026.