Atlanta, January 16, 2026
A shooting occurred at the Central Park Recreation Center in Atlanta, where two men were injured when the suspect opened fire during a dispute. An off-duty police officer intervened, restraining the suspect, who was later taken into custody. Both victims are recovering in stable condition, while investigations by various agencies into the incident, including security measures at the facility, are ongoing.
Atlanta
Two Individuals Shot at Atlanta Warming Center; Suspect in Custody Following Officer Intervention
In a swift and decisive response to an act of violence, an off-duty Atlanta Police Department officer intervened in a shooting incident at the Central Park Recreation Center on Thursday morning, January 15, 2026, leading to the apprehension of the suspect and ensuring medical care for two injured individuals. The recreation center was serving as a warming facility due to prevailing cold temperatures. The incident occurred shortly before 10 a.m. when 37-year-old Antonio Wooten became irate, allegedly threatened patrons and an employee, and subsequently opened fire. Two men sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where they are expected to recover.
Incident Details
The tranquility of the Central Park Recreation Center, located at 400 Merritts Avenue in the Old Fourth Ward, was abruptly disturbed when a verbal dispute escalated into gunfire. The facility, a temporary haven from the cold, became the scene of a sudden confrontation. Antonio Wooten, identified as the alleged assailant, reportedly became agitated, issuing threats before drawing a firearm and discharging it. An off-duty Atlanta police officer, present at the center in a security capacity, quickly responded to the unfolding crisis. The officer fired his weapon, a protective measure that, while not directly striking Wooten, led him to fall to the ground, resulting in a broken arm. This immediate action by the officer contained the threat, preventing further harm within the crowded public space.
Victims and Suspect
Two men were struck by gunfire during the incident. One individual sustained multiple gunshot wounds, estimated between four and five, while the other was shot at least once. Both victims were reported to be alert, conscious, and breathing when emergency services arrived. They were promptly transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where they are currently in stable condition and are anticipated to survive their injuries. The suspect, Antonio Wooten, 37, of Atlanta, was taken into custody at the scene. He was also transported to Grady Memorial Hospital for treatment of the broken arm sustained during his fall, an injury not related to a gunshot.
Ongoing Investigations
The circumstances surrounding the shooting and the officer’s response are now under comprehensive review by multiple agencies. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has initiated an investigation into the off-duty officer’s use of force, a standard protocol whenever an officer discharges a firearm. Concurrently, the Atlanta Police Department is conducting its own investigation into the shooting itself, with a particular focus on how the suspect, Antonio Wooten, was able to enter the warming center with a weapon. The Central Park Recreation Center is equipped with security measures, including prominent “no weapons” signage and a metal detector at the entrance, in addition to having security personnel and off-duty police officers routinely assigned for protection. The ongoing inquiry aims to determine the precise sequence of events and how the existing security protocols were circumvented in this instance.
Community Context
The Central Park Recreation Center’s role as a warming center underscores its vital function in the community, offering shelter and warmth during periods of severe cold. Such facilities serve as crucial resources, providing a safe haven for vulnerable individuals. The swift intervention by the off-duty officer highlights the profound importance of diligence and presence in public spaces, particularly those dedicated to community well-being. While the immediate threat was neutralized and the injured are recovering, the incident prompts a quiet reflection on the complexities of maintaining safety and security in communal settings where human needs and human vulnerabilities converge. It is a reminder of the unseen courage that stands guard and the hope for communal safety, even amidst the realities of unexpected discord.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What happened at the Central Park Recreation Center in Atlanta?
Two men were shot at the Central Park Recreation Center, which was operating as a warming center. The suspect, Antonio Wooten, 37, became irate, allegedly threatened patrons and an employee, and then opened fire. An off-duty Atlanta Police Department officer intervened, causing the suspect to fall and sustain a broken arm. - When did the shooting occur?
The incident occurred on Thursday, January 15, 2026, shortly before 10 a.m. - Where is the Central Park Recreation Center located?
The Central Park Recreation Center is located at 400 Merritts Avenue in the Old Fourth Ward area of Atlanta, Georgia. - Who is the suspect in the shooting?
The suspect has been identified as Antonio Wooten, 37, of Atlanta. - What is the condition of the shooting victims?
Both victims sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to Grady Memorial Hospital. They are reported to be in stable condition and are expected to survive. - Was an officer involved in the shooting?
Yes, an off-duty Atlanta Police Department officer working security at the center intervened by firing his weapon, which caused the suspect to fall and sustain a non-gunshot related injury (a broken arm). - Are there ongoing investigations into the incident?
Yes, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is investigating the officer’s use of force, and the Atlanta Police Department is investigating the shooting and how the suspect brought a weapon into the warming center. - What security measures are in place at the warming center?
The center has “no weapons” signs, a metal detector at the entrance, security officers, and routinely assigned off-duty police officers for protection.
Key Features of the Atlanta Recreation Center Shooting
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Central Park Recreation Center, 400 Merritts Avenue, Old Fourth Ward, Atlanta, Georgia |
| Date and Time | Thursday, January 15, 2026, shortly before 10 a.m. |
| Nature of Incident | Shooting during a verbal dispute at a warming center |
| Suspect Identified As | Antonio Wooten, 37, of Atlanta |
| Number of Victims | Two men |
| Victim Condition | Stable, expected to survive after treatment at Grady Memorial Hospital |
| Officer Involvement | Off-duty APD officer intervened, discharged weapon, causing suspect to fall |
| Suspect Injury | Broken arm (non-gunshot related) |
| Primary Investigating Agencies | Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) for officer’s use of force; Atlanta Police Department (APD) for shooting and weapon entry |
| Security Measures at Center | “No weapons” signs, metal detector, security officers, off-duty police |
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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.
