Shooting reported blocks from NCAA tournament at State Farm Arena

ATLANTA - A busy weekend in downtown Atlanta took a violent turn when a shooting occurred near State Farm Arena, coinciding with the start of the NCAA College Basketball tournament's Sweet 16. The incident was reported around 6:45 p.m. on Friday at the intersection of Luckie and Mills streets.

Upon arrival, police found a male victim suffering from a gunshot wound. He was quickly transported to a local hospital, where he is currently in critical condition. Details about the victim's identity have not been released, and it remains uncertain whether any suspects are in custody.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting. At this time, there are no indications that the incident is connected to the NCAA tournament festivities taking place nearby.

This weekend, Atlanta is hosting the Men's Basketball South Regional, which includes significant matchups such as the game between the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels and the No. 2 Michigan State Spartans, set to tip off shortly after the shooting occurred.

As the investigation unfolds, police will continue to gather information to assess the situation and ensure public safety during this busy event weekend.