Shots Fired Investigation Near Talking Rock Leads to Two Teen Arrests

PICKENS COUNTY, Ga. — Two 17-year-olds have been arrested following an investigation into gunfire reported near a large gathering in the Talking Rock area over the weekend.

According to the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were monitoring traffic near the gathering during the early morning hours of Saturday, Aug. 15, when they heard multiple gunshots.

Deputies then observed a Ford F-150 leaving the area and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. Authorities said the driver, identified as 17-year-old Miguel Rivera-Penaloza, refused to stop and fled at speeds exceeding 100 mph.

Deputies eventually lost sight of the truck and discontinued the pursuit because of the vehicle’s dangerous driving.

A short time later, the F-150 was found crashed in neighboring Gilmer County. Rivera-Penaloza was located following a K-9 track and taken into custody.

He was charged with fleeing or attempting to elude, reckless driving, failure to maintain lane and failure to obey a stop sign.

Meanwhile, investigators continued looking into the reported gunfire and identified 17-year-old Parker Ellis of Canton as the alleged shooter, according to the sheriff’s office.

Ellis was arrested Tuesday, Aug. 18, and charged with multiple counts of aggravated assault. Authorities said he is being held without bond.

No one was reported to have been struck by the gunfire.

The investigation remains active and ongoing.