Three shot in Friday night drive-by
By Elizabeth Billips lizbillips@yahoo.com

Three cousins were shot Friday night when someone opened fire on their van with an assault rifle.

According to Police Chief Karl E. Allen, the most seriously injured was 20-year-old Coleman Hankerson who was shot in the back.

Tyrick Hankerson, 18, and Al-Shumar Hankerson, 14, were hit in their feet.

Chief Allen said officers found the victims inside a parked van on Herman Lodge Boulevard near Washington Drive just before midnight.

Investigators say at least nine rounds were fired from an AK-47.

The bullet that struck Coleman Hankerson actually ripped through the side of the van and two seats before striking him. According to MCG Health officials, he was released Monday morning.

Three other people were also inside, but were not injured.

"An altercation had occurred earlier in the day," Chief Allen said. "According to statements, the guys in this group were 'messing with the women' of the guys in another group."

Chief Allen said both groups were identified by gang names.

"We have a few names floating around, so we'll be interviewing them as soon as we can find them," he said.