Atlanta, December 25, 2025
News Summary
A drive-by shooting on McDaniel Street in Atlanta resulted in the death of 26-year-old Donovan Thomas and left two others injured, including a 14-year-old boy. The shooting took place as the victims were outside a barbershop. Authorities are investigating the incident but do not believe the victims were connected to the barbershop. This tragic event raises concerns about ongoing gun violence in the city.
Atlanta—A drive-by shooting in the 300 block of McDaniel Street claimed the life of one man and left two other individuals injured, including a 14-year-old boy, on Saturday evening around 7:20 p.m. The incident occurred while the victims were standing outside a barbershop in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood, according to information provided by Atlanta police spokesman Greg Lyon.
Donovan Thomas, 26, was struck by gunfire and subsequently transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The other two victims, a juvenile and an unidentified man, sustained gunshot wounds to their lower extremities but are expected to make a full recovery.
Reports indicate that the victims were gathered in a parking lot when shots were fired from a vehicle passing by. Authorities do not believe that they were connected to the barbershop located in close proximity to the shooting site.
As of the following Sunday, Atlanta police are actively investigating the shooting and are gathering further information related to the case. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in the city, as it is one of two reported shootings in the same vicinity within a short timeframe.
This drive-by shooting underscores the challenges local law enforcement faces regarding gun violence. Police are working diligently to piece together details as they seek to understand the motivations behind the attack and to prevent further incidents in the area.
Details of the Incident
- Location: 300 block of McDaniel Street, Atlanta, near Northside Drive
- Time: Approximately 7:20 p.m. on Saturday
- Victims:
- Donovan Thomas, 26, deceased
- 14-year-old boy, injured but expected to recover
- Another unidentified man, injured but expected to recover
- Incident Type: Drive-by shooting from a moving vehicle
- Current Status: Investigation ongoing by Atlanta police
Background Context
Gun violence has been a persistent issue in various urban areas, and Atlanta is no exception. Recent months have seen increased scrutiny of crime rates and public safety, prompting community leaders and law enforcement to take a closer look at the factors contributing to such violence. This latest shooting incident serves as a critical reminder of the need for continued focus on community safety and effective crime reduction strategies.
FAQ
What happened during the drive-by shooting on McDaniel Street?
A drive-by shooting occurred in a parking lot on McDaniel Street in Atlanta on Saturday night, involving three victims, one of whom died.
How many people were injured in the shooting?
Two individuals were injured, including a 14-year-old boy.
What are the conditions of the injured victims?
Both the juvenile and the unidentified man are being treated at Grady Memorial Hospital and are expected to recover.
What do police know about the connection of the victims to the barbershop?
Police do not believe that the victims were connected to the barbershop near which the shooting took place.
What is the status of the police investigation?
Atlanta police are actively investigating the shooting and continue to gather information.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Drive-by shooting |
| Date and Time | Saturday night, around 7:20 p.m. |
| Location | 300 block of McDaniel Street, Atlanta |
| Victims | Donovan Thomas (26, deceased), 14-year-old boy, unidentified man |
| Current Condition of Injured | Expected to recover |
| Police Action | Investigation ongoing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Housing Affordability Tops Concerns in Metro Atlanta Survey
Police Investigate Multiple Fatal Shootings in Atlanta
DeKalb County Police Investigate Suspicious Package
Art Station ATL Opening in Atlanta
Atlanta’s Progress in Public Safety Highlighted at Breakfast
Metro Atlanta Weekend Events Highlight Culinary Delights and Halloween Festivities
16-Year-Old Boy in Critical Condition After Drive-By Shooting
Atlanta Faces Growing Housing Affordability Challenges Amid Price Drop
Surge in Gun Violence Strikes Atlanta Over the Weekend
Atlanta Faces Surge in Gun Violence Over the Weekend
Additional Resources
- AJC: Man Killed in Drive-By Shooting
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence
- Atlanta News First: Police Seek Suspect Identity
- Google Search: Gun Violence in Atlanta
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Two Men Shot in Southwest Atlanta
- Google Scholar: Crime Prevention Strategies
- 11Alive: Police Investigate Targeted Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Crime
- WSBTV: Police Investigating Deadly Officer-Involved Shooting
- Google News: Atlanta Shooting
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
