Suspect arrested in Piedmont Park shooting that killed teen Tianah Robinson, police say
Atlanta police have arrested a suspect in connection with the deadly shooting that claimed the life of 16-year-old Tianah Robinson, after her family and the community have been left navigating unimaginable grief.
On July 31, 2026, Kaine Burnette self-surrendered to Fulton County Jail on charges related to the April killing of Robinson. Burnette faces charges of "reckless conduct, possession of a pistol as a minor, and discharging a weapon near a street."
Atlanta police says while they hope this brings her family some closure, they are still making the city aware that they are searching for two other persons of interest in connection with Robinson's death.
A life remembered beyond the headlines
A celebration of life for Robinson was held for the teenager at Ebenezer Baptist Church.
The location—one of Atlanta's most historic churches—underscores the weight of the moment: a young life lost, a family seeking peace, and a city again confronting questions about safety in one of its most beloved public spaces.
In previous CBS News Atlanta coverage, Robinson's family described her as "vibrant, kind, and full of promise," a young lady whose presence lit up every room she entered.
They spoke not just about who she was, but who she was becoming: a young woman with dreams, friendships, and a future that now exists only in memory.
A shooting that shook the city
The shooting at Piedmont Park sent waves of fear and confusion through Atlanta.
Previous CBS News Atlanta reporting documented the chaos of that night:
- 911 calls capturing panic as gunfire erupted
- Surveillance images released by police in search of suspects
- Renewed appeals for public help in solving the case
The park—typically a place for families, festivals, and everyday life—became the scene of a tragedy that has yet to fully resolve.
As of now, investigators continue to search for answers, and for the other two people responsible.
Grief, accountability, and unanswered questions
Community members have raised concerns about safety in Piedmont Park prior to the incident that killed the young teen.
The unsolved stabbing death of Katie Janness and her dog still haunts Atlanta five years later.
As the park continues to draw larger crowds outdoors, others are asking what more can be done to prevent violence from claiming young and vulnerable lives.
Still, for families like Robinson's and Janness', those questions exist alongside something more: the pain of loss.
A final goodbye, and a lasting impact
Beyond the headlines, beyond the investigation, there is a simple truth at the center of this story that is all too familiar:
A young life ended too soon.
A family forever changed.
And a city left to reckon with both.
If you or someone you know has answers, you can call Atlanta tip line at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or go online at www.StopCrimeAtl.org.
