A DeKalb County grand jury has reindicted a former police officer in connection with the fatal shooting of a Stone Mountain man dating back to 2022. The officer, Russell Mathis, now 32, faces charges of Involuntary Manslaughter and Reckless Conduct for the death of 37-year-old Marando Salmon. As reported by the DeKalb County District Attorney's Office, the indictment came down yesterday.
The incident in question occurred on November 4, 2022, when Mathis, then an officer, and a colleague responded to a report of a stolen car. They found the vehicle parked at a home on Autumn Crest Court and, consequently, entered the residence when the front door swung open. Upon reaching a second-floor bedroom, Mathis encountered Salmon and, believing a cellphone thrown at him was a knife, opened fire, ultimately leading to Salmon's death. The indictment emphasizes that although a holstered gun was found in the bedroom, Salmon was unarmed during the altercation.
This is not the first time charges have been brought against Mathis. He and another officer were previously indicted in February 2024 for their roles in the shooting. Nonetheless, the case was dismissed this April over concerns regarding the presentation of evidence. Following further examination of the case details, the DA's office decided solely to pursue charges against Mathis, as reported by DeKalb County District Attorney's Office. The second officer involved in the incident will not face charges.
Arraignment for the former DeKalb County Police officer is scheduled for November 19, 2025, and the case will appear before DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Courtney L. Johnson. This reindictment represents the DA's office' continuing efforts to scrutinize the circumstances leading to the tragic events of that November night and to potentially hold those accountable who may be responsible for Salmon's untimely demise.
