DeKalb County, GA — Manhunt Underway After Tragic Double Homicide Claims Lives of Adult and Child at Columbia Drive Apartment Complex
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in DeKalb County on Friday afternoon as a shooting at an apartment complex on Columbia Drive near Interstate 20 left two people dead, including a child. Police have confirmed that an adult and a juvenile were killed, and a manhunt is now underway to locate the suspect responsible.
The shooting occurred around 3 p.m., drawing a heavy police presence to the complex as residents and bystanders looked on in shock. Authorities responded swiftly after receiving reports of gunfire in the area, only to find two victims — one adult and one child — who had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
A Community in Shock
The deadly violence has rattled the neighborhood and reignited concerns over gun violence in residential areas. Families living in the complex were forced to confront the horror as police cordoned off the scene with crime scene tape and NewsChopper 2 captured aerial footage of law enforcement combing the area.
The visuals were harrowing — nearly a dozen police vehicles swarmed the area, and a damaged SUV was seen perched on a curb near the complex, indicating the chaotic aftermath of the incident.
Residents who spoke to reporters expressed disbelief and sorrow, particularly over the death of a child.
“It’s just heartbreaking. I heard the shots and then saw the police everywhere. But to find out a kid died… I just can’t make sense of it,” said a neighbor who asked not to be named.
Investigation and Manhunt
DeKalb County Police Department confirmed the shooting but have not yet released the names or ages of the victims pending notification of their families. The identity of the suspect is also being withheld as investigators continue to piece together what led to the tragic events.
According to Channel 2 Action News’ Courtney Francisco, law enforcement officials are actively pursuing leads and asking for the public’s help in locating the person responsible. Authorities have not clarified whether the shooter was known to the victims or if this was a random act of violence.
Detectives were seen canvassing the area, speaking to potential witnesses and collecting forensic evidence at the scene. So far, no arrest has been made, and the suspect remains at large.
Urgent Appeal for Information
Police are urging anyone who may have seen anything suspicious near Columbia Drive around the time of the shooting to come forward immediately. Surveillance footage from nearby buildings is being reviewed, and authorities are hoping that community tips may help narrow down the search.
“We are working tirelessly to determine what happened and who is responsible,” said one officer at the scene. “We will not rest until justice is served for these victims.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the DeKalb County Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or online via the P3 Tips mobile app.
Ongoing Violence Raising Alarm
This tragedy is just the latest in a troubling pattern of violent incidents across metro Atlanta. As families, especially those with children, look for answers, advocates are once again calling for action to address gun violence and improve safety in apartment complexes and underserved communities.
Local leaders and community organizations are expected to issue statements and organize support efforts for the affected families in the coming days.
Mourning the Loss
While details about the victims have not yet been released, early reports suggest that the child was school-aged, which only compounds the grief felt by the community.
A small memorial of candles and flowers was beginning to take shape outside the apartment complex as night fell — a painful symbol of yet another life lost too soon, and a city mourning yet another preventable act of violence.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The DeKalb County community, now grappling with grief and fear, awaits answers — and justice.