In Georgia (and 28 other states), gun deaths outnumber car deaths

Georgians are now more likely to be killed by a gun than a car crash — just like the majority of states in the country.

In fact, gun deaths, including suicides, increased in all but five states and the District of Columbia between 2003 and 2013, while traffic fatalities declined in all but four states during that time, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution's analysis of government statistics, insurance industry data and records from state vital-records offices.

In 2003, the AJC found, more people died from shootings than car crashes in just two states and the District of Columbia.

By 2013, that was the case in 29 states and D.C.

Georgia's tipping point came as 2010 became 2011, on a cool, drizzly night in Lilburn.

Click here to read the complete special report, including national statistics and the stories of Georgians affected by gun violence

In Georgia’s melon mecca, watermelon wizards’ ears are sweetly attuned

In the heart of Georgia's watermelon country, everyone has a trick to tell if a melon is ripe. One way is the sound a melon makes when it is thumped. Or better, patted.

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Breakdown: Three days in May

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Credit: AP

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In Georgia’s melon mecca, watermelon wizards’ ears are sweetly attuned

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Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

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In Georgia’s melon mecca, watermelon wizards’ ears are sweetly attuned

In the heart of Georgia's watermelon country, everyone has a trick to tell if a melon is ripe. One way is the sound a melon makes when it is thumped. Or better, patted.