Days after 29-year-old Justin Tucker was shot and killed outside a Sandy Springs apartment complex, his family says they finally feel a small measure of relief. Two men have been arrested in connection with the deadly encounter, which unfolded Tuesday during an altercation in the parking lot of the Hudson Northridge apartments, according to relatives. The arrests came after a rapid police investigation that identified two suspects and led detectives to execute a search warrant.
Family remembers Tucker as selfless
In an interview with FOX 5 Atlanta, Tucker’s uncle Robert Destin described his nephew as a selfless man who "lived to encourage others" and said the arrests gave the family a sense of security. Destin told FOX 5 Atlanta he often scrolls through messages from his nephew that show how supportive Tucker was of family members, and that knowing the suspects are off the street has eased fears. He also urged people to find nonviolent ways to resolve disputes.
Arrests and charges
Sandy Springs police arrested 26-year-old Derrick Washington and 20-year-old Mason Washington and booked both men on multiple counts, including two counts of murder, aggravated assault and a weapons charge, according to CBS Atlanta. Court records show the brothers waived initial appearances after being taken into custody, Atlanta News First reported. Authorities say detectives executed a search warrant at an apartment linked to the suspects and recovered firearms during the investigation.
Investigators' account
A criminal warrant described by Rough Draft Atlanta lays out witness statements that the encounter began with an argument that quickly escalated into gunfire. The warrant says a witness saw the victim and an armed man arguing in the parking lot, and that shell casings were found near the body. Detectives used license-plate readers and witness interviews to track vehicles connected to the case as the probe continued.
Mother's plea and funeral fundraiser
Tucker’s mother, Santina Dieng, told WSB‑TV that her son was waiting for an Uber when the altercation turned deadly and that the family is grateful for the speed of the arrests. A GoFundMe organized by Sonya Destin lists a $2,400 goal to cover funeral costs and had raised more than $1,000 as of Friday, according to the fundraiser page. Family members say they are now focused on burial plans while investigators sort through evidence.
Investigation ongoing
Authorities have not released a specific motive and say the homicide investigation remains active; anyone with information or video from the Northridge Parkway area is asked to come forward. The Sandy Springs Police Department’s "Report a Crime & Crime Tips" page lists a tip line at 770‑551‑3300 and offers an online form for anonymous tips at the Sandy Springs Police Department. Both suspects remain in custody and their cases will move through the Fulton County court system.
