Part of Atlanta shut down as man fires weapon off Four Seasons hotel balcony

ATLANTA, GA – A tense situation unfolded in Midtown Atlanta on Tuesday afternoon, leading to a significant police response and a shelter-in-place order for residents in the area. The incident began around 10 a.m. when Atlanta police were called to the Four Seasons Hotel’s residential area on reports of a man in a mental health crisis, armed with firearms. As the situation escalated, the suspect began firing shots from his 33rd-floor apartment, prompting a swift and strategic law enforcement reaction to ensure public safety.

Authorities swiftly evacuated the 33rd floor and those immediately above and below, while negotiators attempted to communicate with the suspect, identified as 70-year-old Jay Stevens Berger. Despite initial attempts to resolve the situation peacefully, Berger fired multiple shots, believed to include a handgun, a shotgun, and a rifle. The shots were mainly directed through the apartment’s walls and door, with at least one round fired from the balcony.

In response, the Atlanta Police Department deployed its SWAT team to the scene, while officers established a wide perimeter around the building to protect Midtown’s densely populated area. The police issued a shelter-in-place order, urging residents to stay away from windows and doors due to the potential danger posed by the suspect’s elevated firing position.

The situation remained fluid as officers worked to bring it to a peaceful conclusion. After several hours of negotiation and tactical maneuvering, the suspect waved his hands in surrender while standing on his balcony. SWAT officers then breached the apartment, successfully taking Berger into custody without further incident. Both Berger and an injured Atlanta police officer were transported to Grady Hospital for treatment. The officer’s injuries were not life-threatening, and Berger was reported to be in stable condition.

The incident highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement in urban environments, where high-rise buildings and densely populated areas demand careful tactical operations. Atlanta Police Chief Darren Sheirbaum commended the officers for their professionalism and commitment to preserving life, while Mayor Andre Dickens praised the department’s swift and decisive action in resolving the crisis.

As the investigation continues, police are working to determine the exact sequence of events and any potential charges against Berger. Meanwhile, the affected floors of the Four Seasons remain a crime scene as investigators gather evidence and assess the damage caused by the gunfire.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in managing public safety in urban settings, where the presence of firearms and mental health crises can quickly escalate into dangerous situations. The Atlanta Police Department’s response underscores the importance of training and preparedness in handling such emergencies.