A manhunt is currently active in Brookhaven as the local police seek Jose Carlos Meza Ignacio, 31, described as "armed and dangerous." Ignacio is wanted for a murder that took place yesterday inside an apartment, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. The same incident is under investigation by DeKalb County police officers, who were called to the Carmel Creek Apartments, south of DeKalb Peachtree Airport, just before 3 a.m. yesterday.
At the scene, police discovered a man with multiple gunshot wounds on the floor of the apartment; efforts to save his life were in vain. The suspect, Meza Ignacio, was reportedly seen last wearing a black T-shirt, brown shorts, and a black hat. Authorities emphasize that Meza Ignacio should be considered armed and dangerous, and caution the public not to approach him but rather to call law enforcement immediately, Atlanta News First reported.
During a family gathering, Ignacio and the victim were said to be consuming alcohol when an argument over the presence of a gun escalated, leading to Ignacio allegedly shooting the victim. This altercation, and subsequent violence occurred in the presence of the victim's niece and nephews, thus bringing about additional charges of cruelty to children for Meza Ignacio. Brookhaven Police Lt. Carlos Nino conveyed the gravity of the situation in an interview with FOX 5, "The fact that he was willing to do this at a family gathering, and over what seems to be a very reasonable request in front of children, I mean what do you think that tells us about this type of person we're dealing with here."
Meza Ignacio is described as having a scar on his left eye and multiple tattoos, including a horse on his left arm, an image of Saint Jude on his back, and lettering on his neck. He is not a member of the family but was considered a family friend of the victim. Neighbors of the usually quiet apartment complex expressed their shock and distress, with one stating to Atlanta News First, "Two times. at 1:30 a.m. and 2:30 a.m.," referencing the sounds of gunfire, "All the people, ladies, were crying."
The police are calling upon anyone with information to come forward and contact the Brookhaven police or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or dial 911.
