Suspect arrested in fatal shooting of two teens in South Fulton, authorities say
Authorities have arrested a suspect in the fatal double shooting that left two teenagers dead last Tuesday evening, according to city officials.
On Sunday, March 22, 2026, at approximately 1:15 p.m., the South Fulton Police Department's Fugitive Unit arrested 14-year-old Keyshawn Hughes, following a targeted and coordinated operation. The arrest comes after authorities identified Hughes as the primary suspect in the March 20 shooting that took place on Bethsaida Road.
Hughes faces two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of felony murder, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, and possession of a firearm by a person under the age of 18. The victims, both 15-year-old boys, were pronounced dead at the scene. Police have not released their names pending notification of next of kin.
Under the direction and leadership of Interim Public Safety Director Dr. Cedric Alexander, investigators employed strategic, intelligence-driven techniques to rapidly identify, locate, and apprehend the suspect. Through coordinated surveillance efforts, officers tracked a vehicle associated with Hughes to a local church on Fairburn Road.
After the church service, Hughes was seen entering a vehicle and was subsequently taken into custody during a traffic stop without incident.
Police have stated that the investigation remains ongoing and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
District 4 Councilmember Jaceey Sebastian and Mayor Carmalitha Gumbs both issued statements commending the South Fulton Police Department's swift response and expressing condolences to the families of the victims.
"It was gun violence and a tragedy that no community should have to endure," said Councilmember Sebastian. "Now that law enforcement has worked diligently in identifying and capturing a suspect, I have full confidence that the criminal justice system will provide justice for the victims' families."
Mayor Gumbs praised the police for their professionalism and reassured residents that South Fulton remains committed to public safety. "While no arrest can undo the pain caused by this tragedy, we are encouraged that the criminal justice process can now go forward," she said.
Both officials emphasized the need for unity and continued vigilance, promising to support efforts that prevent further violence in the community.
