Atlanta, Georgia, December 25, 2025
News Summary
An off-duty police officer in Atlanta shot a man late on Christmas Eve while responding to reports of gunfire at a local apartment complex. The officer was alerted about a man armed with a gun chasing a woman. When the suspect, identified as Joshua Knox, failed to comply with the officer’s commands to drop his weapon, the officer discharged his firearm. Knox was subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment while the Georgia Bureau of Investigation continues the investigation into the incident.
Atlanta, Georgia – An off-duty Atlanta police officer shot a man late on Christmas Eve while responding to reports of gunfire at The Commons apartment complex. The incident took place around 11:45 p.m. on December 24 at 3045 Middleton Road NW.
While working an extra job at the complex, the officer was alerted by two individuals who flagged him down. They informed him that a man armed with a gun was chasing a woman and had possibly shot her. The suspect was identified as 31-year-old Joshua Knox from Atlanta.
Upon encountering Knox, the officer issued multiple verbal commands for him to drop his weapon. However, Knox did not comply. Consequently, the officer discharged his firearm, striking Knox. Other responding officers rendered aid at the scene, and Knox was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital for treatment. Upon arrival, he was reported to be awake and breathing.
As of the latest update, police have not released information regarding the condition of the woman involved in the incident, nor have they found any additional victims. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is currently leading the investigation into the shooting, following standard protocol for officer-involved shootings. Information disclosed so far is preliminary and subject to change as the investigation continues.
Key Details of the Incident
- Date and Time: December 24, 2021, at approximately 11:45 p.m.
- Location: The Commons apartment complex, 3045 Middleton Road NW, Atlanta, Georgia.
- Involved Parties: Off-duty Atlanta police officer and Joshua Knox, 31, from Atlanta.
- Response: Officer working an extra job, alerted by individuals about Knox’s actions.
- Shooting Details: Officer commanded Knox to drop his gun but was not complied with, leading to the officer discharging his weapon.
- Status of Suspect: Knox was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, awake and breathing.
- Current Investigation: Led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, information is preliminary.
Context of Officer-Involved Shootings
Officer-involved shootings are subject to rigorous investigation to ensure accountability and transparency. The GBI typically takes the lead in such cases in Georgia to provide an independent assessment of the events that transpired.
Details surrounding incidents like these are crucial for public awareness and for understanding the nuances involved in police engagements with suspects. The investigation aims to clarify the events leading to the officer’s use of force and the circumstances surrounding Knox’s actions.
Community Reactions
While the community awaits further information, events like this often lead to discussions on public safety, police conduct, and the effectiveness of emergency responses in critical situations.
Conclusion
This incident raises significant questions about safety and the responsibilities of law enforcement officers when confronted with dangerous situations. Further information will likely emerge as the investigation unfolds.
FAQ Section
What happened on Christmas Eve involving an off-duty Atlanta police officer?
An off-duty Atlanta police officer shot a man late on Christmas Eve while working an extra job at The Commons apartment complex after responding to reports of gunfire and a man armed with a gun chasing a woman.
Who was identified as the suspect in the shooting?
The suspect was identified as 31-year-old Joshua Knox from Atlanta.
What was the condition of the suspect after the incident?
Joshua Knox was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital for treatment and was reported to be awake and breathing upon arrival.
Is there any information about the woman involved in the incident?
As of the latest update, police have not released information regarding the condition of the woman involved in the incident, nor have they found any additional victims.
Who is leading the investigation into the shooting?
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is leading the investigation into the shooting, following standard protocol for officer-involved shootings.
Incident Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date and Time | December 24, 2021, at approximately 11:45 p.m. |
| Location | The Commons apartment complex, 3045 Middleton Road NW, Atlanta, Georgia. |
| Suspect’s Identity | Joshua Knox, 31, from Atlanta. |
| Officer’s Action | Discharged firearm after suspect did not comply with commands. |
| Response | Officers rendered aid; Knox transported to Grady Memorial Hospital. |
| Investigation | Led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, under standard protocol. |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Police Involved Shootings
- Atlanta News First
- Google Search: Atlanta police shooting
- AJC
- Google Scholar: Police Shooting Accountability
- 11 Alive
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Use of Force
- WALB
- Google News: Atlanta police shooting investigation
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.
