Atlanta police are again asking for the public's help to track down a 25-year-old man they say is linked to a deadly drive-by shooting in Southwest Atlanta. The gunfire erupted in the early morning hours of Sept. 16, 2023, along Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard SW. A man found wounded at the scene was rushed to a hospital, where he later died. Investigators say the shots came from a moving vehicle and warn that the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous.
Police release photo and suspect description
Detectives have identified the suspect as 25-year-old Mi’Quae Williams. He is described as about 6 feet tall and 180 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, and is wanted on a murder charge, according to Atlanta News First. Police released a photograph of Williams on Wednesday, hoping it will jog someone’s memory and bring in fresh tips. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. C. Phillips at (470) 698-7896.
Victim identity and case history
The shooting happened outside a music studio on Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard. Some coverage lists the specific address as 448 Ralph David Abernathy SW and identifies the victim as 23-year-old Nicholas Carter, who died after being taken to Grady Memorial Hospital, as reported by WSBTV. The station noted that the Atlanta Police Department’s Fugitive Unit has been working the case and that the investigation has stayed open since 2023. Police had already circulated images and public appeals in the months following the killing.
Family reaction and timeline questions
Relatives of the victim have publicly pressed authorities to find the person responsible and have voiced frustration with how long the investigation has taken, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. Family members told the outlet they had previously been informed that detectives believed they knew who pulled the trigger, and they worry that crucial leads may have cooled while the suspect has remained at large. FOX 5 reported that the case is listed with Atlanta Crime Stoppers and that a reward is available for useful information.
How to pass along tips
Anyone with information is urged to call Det. C. Phillips at (470) 698-7896 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 404-577-8477, using the P3 Tips app, texting CSGA to 738477, or filing an online tip, according to Atlanta News First. The Atlanta Police Foundation’s Crime Stoppers site explains tip options and the reward process at StopCrimeAtl.org. Investigators say any photos or video from the Ralph David Abernathy area on Sept. 16, 2023, could be useful and should be saved.
Legal status
Williams is currently wanted on a murder charge. Authorities and reporting outlets note that naming a suspect and issuing an arrest warrant do not equal a conviction, and the case would move through the courts if he is taken into custody, per WSBTV. The Atlanta Police Department’s Fugitive Unit is leading the search and is asking anyone who spots Williams or has relevant information to contact them immediately.
