Justin Minnitee Obituary and Death – A peaceful evening turned deadly on Saturday at Coan Park in East Atlanta when gunfire erupted during a permitted fraternity gathering, leaving two people dead and two others injured. The Atlanta Police Department (APD) confirmed that the shooting occurred just before 8 p.m., sending shockwaves through the local community.
Among the victims was 23-year-old Justin Minnitee, who was critically wounded during the incident and later died at the hospital. Another victim, 33-year-old Anthony Pearson, was pronounced dead at the scene after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head. The names of the two additional injured individuals have not been released; however, one is reportedly in stable condition, while the other sustained a graze wound and is expected to recover.
According to Lt. Andrew Smith of the APD Homicide Unit, the violence began when an uninvited individual arrived at the private event. Tensions quickly escalated into a verbal dispute, which then turned violent when at least two people pulled out firearms and exchanged gunfire. “From what we know at this point, there was an uninvited guest that arrived to the location, which led to a confrontation, which led to guns being produced and shots being fired,” Lt. Smith explained during a press conference.
The park, a well-known recreational hub for families and community events, became a scene of chaos as gunshots rang out during what was intended to be a peaceful celebration. Witnesses described the event as well-organized and meant for fellowship, not conflict. “Nobody expects to hear gunshots at a park on a Saturday night, especially not during a fraternity gathering,” one attendee remarked, expressing disbelief and sorrow over the tragedy.
In the aftermath, APD homicide detectives have launched an intensive investigation. Authorities are reviewing security footage from the park, interviewing witnesses, and seeking to identify all parties involved in the shooting. As of now, no arrests have been made, and police have not confirmed the identities of those who fired the weapons or whether the firearms were legally owned.
The sudden deaths of Justin Minnitee and Anthony Pearson have devastated their families and left the wider community mourning. Both men were reportedly well-liked, and their untimely deaths underscore the growing concern over gun violence in public spaces.
The Atlanta Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward, either directly or through Crime Stoppers Atlanta. Community leaders and residents alike are calling for accountability and renewed efforts to ensure public safety.
The tragic events at Coan Park serve as a grim reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable consequences of violence. As investigations continue, the community holds onto hope for justice, healing, and change to prevent such senseless acts in the future.
