Suspect in custody for killing of woman near Fulton County elementary school, officials say

A suspect in a deadly shooting that forced Fulton County's Palmetto Elementary School to go into a hard lockdown is now in custody, officials said.

Christopher Ates, 39, was arrested in Houston County, authorities with Fulton County Schools tell CBS News Atlanta.

Ates is now facing charges of second-degree cruelty to children, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, and reckless driving. 

"The Fulton County Police Department is finalizing charges and will be issuing additional warrants," a spokesperson for Fulton County Schools said. "Law enforcement agencies are working together to transfer custody so the suspect can face criminal charges in Fulton County."

The shooting led the elementary school on Carlton Road to go into a hard lockdown. School officials asked parents and community members not to come to the school while the lockdown was ongoing, citing safety concerns.

Fulton County Schools confirmed that all students were safe and that no students were involved or injured in the incident.

Students were transported to Bear Creek Middle School, where they could be be picked up by parents or guardians.

Authorities have confirmed that an adult woman was killed in the shooting. Details about what led up to the shots being fired or the woman's identity have not been shared.

This is a developing story. Check back with CBS News Atlanta for updates.