Atlanta Tragedy: D’Anthony Reaves Fatally Shot in Early Morning Attack on Forsyth Street
ATLANTA, GA — A quiet morning in downtown Atlanta was shattered by violence on Saturday, July 19, 2025, when 28-year-old D’Anthony Reaves was gunned down in a brutal act that has left his family, friends, and community searching for answers.
According to the Atlanta Police Department, officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 200 block of Forsyth Street SW around 5:30 a.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Reaves lying on the pavement, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds—two to the face and one to the arm. Despite the efforts of first responders, Reaves was pronounced dead at the scene.
The area, not far from the heart of the city’s business district and several residential buildings, quickly filled with patrol vehicles, yellow crime scene tape, and concerned neighbors, all shaken by the grim sight of yet another act of gun violence in Atlanta.
A Young Life Stolen
Reaves’ identity was later confirmed by his family, who gathered near the scene Saturday evening for a candlelight vigil. There, surrounded by flowers, hand-written notes, and flickering candles, loved ones remembered D’Anthony not for how his life ended, but for the vibrant spirit he embodied.
“He was a free soul,” said his sister, tearfully. “He loved to dance, to laugh, to bring joy to others. No matter what was going on in his own life, he wanted everyone around him to smile.”
Friends described Reaves as a passionate performer who could light up any room with his energy. He had a love for music, spontaneous dancing, and connecting with people in an authentic and uplifting way. Though he had faced his share of hardships—as many do—those closest to him say he was turning his life around and had recently talked about going back to school or starting a business.
“He had plans. Big ones,” said longtime friend Marcus Lane. “It’s hard to believe he’s just gone.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Atlanta Police Homicide Unit is actively investigating the shooting, though as of this report, no suspects have been publicly named or arrested. Detectives were seen canvassing the area, reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding buildings, and interviewing potential witnesses throughout the day Saturday and into the night.
Authorities have not yet released any details about a possible motive, and it’s unclear whether the shooting was targeted or random. Officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“We are treating this case with urgency and seriousness,” said a spokesperson from APD. “We’re asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything around the time of the shooting—no matter how small it may seem—to contact the Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.”
A Familiar Tragedy in Atlanta
Sadly, D’Anthony Reaves’ death is not an isolated incident. Atlanta, like many large cities across the nation, continues to struggle with persistent gun violence—especially in the early morning hours when visibility is low, and fewer people are present to serve as witnesses.
The Forsyth Street shooting is yet another reminder of the toll gun violence takes not only on individual lives, but on entire communities that are left grieving, fearful, and demanding change.
Community activists and anti-violence groups have already begun to rally in response to the tragedy, calling for increased patrols, community outreach, and youth engagement programs in downtown Atlanta and surrounding neighborhoods.
“This is not just about D’Anthony,” said local activist Kenya Reid. “This is about every person we’ve lost too soon to bullets, and about the future we’re trying to protect for our children.”
Honoring D’Anthony’s Legacy
In the hours after the vigil, the makeshift memorial continued to grow. Passersby, friends, and even strangers left notes of hope, photos, and keepsakes. One note read, “Keep dancing in heaven, D’Anthony. You’ll never be forgotten.”
His family has set up a memorial fund to cover funeral expenses and is planning a celebration of life service, where friends will be invited to share memories, music, and dance—the things D’Anthony loved most.
For those who knew him, his loss is immeasurable. For the city, his story is another chapter in a long and painful narrative that community leaders are desperate to rewrite.
If you have any information about the shooting that took place near the 200 block of Forsyth Street SW on Saturday morning, please contact the Atlanta Police Department Homicide Unit at (404) 546-4235 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477).
Rest in peace, D’Anthony Reaves. May your spirit continue to move, and your memory spark change.