14-year-old struck when shots fired at birthday party

Injuries serious but non-life threatening

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Police are looking for the gunman who shot a 14-year-old girl in the head Friday night at a birthday party.

Police said more than 100 people were at the party at the Picketville Civic Club, on Lane Avenue near Old Kings Road when someone started shooting.just before 11 p.m.

The teenager, whose name was not released, was taken toUF Health Jacksonville in serious condition. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said she was expected to recover from her injuries.

The president of the club said he didn't learn about the shooting until he showed up Saturday morning and saw bullet holes in the front of the building. He said he’s surprised because there have never been any problems before.

John Pittman said he found five bullet holes to the front of the building. He said the facility was rented for the birthday party.

“We try to rent the place out to people who want to have parties and stuff and try to be reasonable about it, but this is probably going to shut all that down," Pittman said. "This won’t happen anymore."

Investigators said they didn't have any leads on who fired the shots. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 866-845-TIPS.

“That’s real sad," Pittman said. "This is a nice, little, quiet community. Nobody messes with anybody out here. Everyone is real nice."