The recent standoff at the Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown Atlanta has culminated with the release of a mug shot for 70-year-old Dr. Jay Steven Berger. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Berger has been charged with aggravated assault and reckless endangerment following the event, where he fired shots and threw furniture from a 33rd-floor window.
Additional details were disclosed when 11Alive obtained warrants say Berger pointed a gun at the residential manager prior to flooding his apartment, creating a chaotic scene with water spilling out into the hallways. Despite the early efforts at de-escalation, Berger escalated the situation, which resulted in a lengthy standoff with police. Engaging with a SWAT team as per the warrants, they used ballistic shields in the hallway and took cover behind a concrete wall when Berger, who seemed emotionally distressed, opened fire.
The 11Alive report noted that while Atlanta SWAT Officer Jonathan Caporaso was receiving medical treatment for a shoulder injury sustained from a round fragment, Berger continued firing through the wall into the stairway. Berger's actions led to additional charges including four counts of aggravated assault against the SWAT officers involved.
Dramatic footage showed Berger waving U.S. flags from his balcony while donning a gas mask. Subsequently, a SWAT counter-sniper shot Berger in the head causing him to begin tossing items from his rooftop. He later placed his gun down, ending the violent episode, and allowing officers to apprehend him without further incident. Berger is said to have fired a total of 112 rounds during the standoff and now faces multiple felony charges, including possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Following the ordeal, Berger was taken to Grady Hospital to treat his injuries.
