DECATUR, GA – A tragic scene unfolded early Sunday morning in Decatur as a street takeover turned deadly, leaving one young man dead and four others injured. DeKalb County police reported that the chaos erupted when an argument escalated into gunfire, claiming the life of 20-year-old Evan Garner.
Witnesses recounted the horrifying moment when a man brandished a firearm and began shooting indiscriminately into a crowd of car enthusiasts gathered at the event. Garner, who was deeply involved in the Atlanta car scene, was struck in the neck and collapsed on the sidewalk, where he was later found by friends.
The incident occurred on Paola Industrial Boulevard, near Snapfinger Woods Drive, where approximately 100 people had gathered. Friends of Garner expressed frustration, wishing that law enforcement had intervened to disperse the gathering before it turned violent.
The car community, often drawn together by their shared passion for vehicles, has been left shaken by the violence. “It’s unfortunate that parents can’t feel safe letting their children go out anymore, fearing they might not return home,” lamented one attendee.
While Garner’s family has chosen to grieve privately, they have requested prayers and support during this difficult time. His girlfriend, Taylor, mentioned plans for a balloon release in his memory, though a date has yet to be set.
As the investigation continues, authorities have not released any information about suspects or arrests. Efforts to contact the DeKalb County Police Department for updates have so far been unsuccessful.
The tragic event has sparked a conversation about the safety and regulation of such gatherings, with community members calling for stricter measures to prevent future incidents. As the city mourns the loss of a beloved member, the hope remains that justice will be served and peace restored.