Tragedy struck at Mozley Park in Atlanta when 27-year-old Zantrez Cummings was fatally shot after approaching a parked vehicle. The incident, as reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, occurred around 9:30 p.m. last Tuesday. "We believe the victim just happened to walk up to a vehicle and, for whatever reason, they opened fire," said Atlanta Homicide Commander Andrew Smith. Smith clarified that no prior incidents at Mozley Park were reported during his tenure, and the parks were supposed to remain open until 11 p.m.
The investigation is still active, with detectives working to possibly identify the suspect and vehicle involved. Surveillance footage from the area is currently under review. "Authorities do not yet have a description of the suspect or the vehicle involved," Smith said to FOX 5 Atlanta, highlighting the preliminary state of the ongoing investigation. In the days following the shooting, a fight broke out among a large group at the park, but officials have not connected it to the incident nor have they announced any arrests related to the altercation.
As the community grapples with the loss, Cummings' family has scheduled a balloon release to honor him. According to a statement obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta, friends and family are asked to bring purple balloons and candles to the park at 7 p.m. on Friday as a tribute.
Concerns over safety have risen in the wake of this violent episode, as Mozley Park is closely integrated into the community fabric, directly adjacent to a playground, a public pool, and F.L. Stanton Elementary School. Despite the unease, local Jaron Wilson, who frequently walks his dog there, expressed a determined resilience. "Oh, he was actually killed. That’s crazy. It’s like I’m here pretty much three times a week and I know pretty much everyone who comes here," Wilson told Atlanta News First. Police continue to encourage anyone with information about the incident to come forward with anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers Atlanta.
The search for the shooter remains in motion as Atlanta Police call on the public to submit any information that could lead to an arrest. With community safety at stake, officers urge individuals to report anonymously by calling, submitting online, or texting tips to Crime Stoppers. As of now, no arrests have been made.
