A Riverdale man is in critical condition after being shot in the face and abdomen in a late night disturbance April 16 at a Fairburn residence. Neighborhood resident Santos Watkins was charged in the shooting.

Watkins, 23, of an Orchard Street address, was charged with aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, according to Fairburn Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Lt. Toney Williams. Watkins turned himself into the Fairburn Police April 17, Williams said.

The victim, 39 year-old Stanley Neely, was shot at approximately 3:45 AM in front of a residence at 118 Golightly Street. Williams said approximately one-half dozen had been present at the residence, visiting and playing cards. Alcohol had also been consumed, he said. The shooting occurred in front of the residence after Watkins and Neely got into an argument related to another guest present at the time, said Williams. Watkins produced a small caliber handgun and fired, striking Neely twice in the area of the mouth and once in the lower abdomen, he said.

Williams said Watkins arrived at Fairburn Police Department around noon April 17 and turned himself in to authorities. Watkins was accompanied by family members. After being advised of his rights, Watkins waived his right to counsel and admitted to shooting Neely, Williams said.

Watkins was charged and is currently being held in Fulton County Jail.

Neely remains in critical condition at Grady Hospital.

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