Atlanta, October 23, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta is facing growing concerns over public safety due to a series of violent incidents, including shootings and kidnappings. High-profile cases involve a shooting on Conley Road SE, where a man was injured and a child was found unharmed; a suspect wanted for shooting a woman and kidnapping a boy in Bibb County; and the tragic murder of Oscar Cruz in Gwinnett County. These events highlight a disturbing increase in violence in the area and the need for heightened vigilance among residents.
Atlanta Experiences a String of Violent Incidents, Including Shootings and Kidnappings
Atlanta has witnessed a series of violent incidents in recent days, prompting concerns over public safety. One of the most alarming events occurred on Thursday afternoon, when a 23-year-old man suffered a gunshot wound on Conley Road SE. Police were called to the scene around 3:30 p.m., where they learned that a suspect fled the area in a vehicle containing a child. Fortunately, the child was later found safe and unharmed after being dropped off near Donnebrook Lane SE. Authorities have not released information regarding the ownership of the vehicle involved, and the search for the suspect continues. As of now, the condition of the injured victim remains unknown.
In a separate incident in Bibb County, police are on the lookout for 18-year-old Nicholas Ishmael Floyd. Floyd is accused of shooting a 52-year-old woman, setting her home on fire, and kidnapping a 12-year-old boy. The shooting took place at her residence on Madden Avenue, after which Floyd barricaded himself and the boy at a location on Summer Hill Drive. The SWAT team managed to identify and rescue the boy unharmed, but Floyd managed to escape. Authorities have described him as 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 150 pounds, with an afro hairstyle.
Another alarming incident occurred in Marietta, where a man was carjacked, shot at, handcuffed, and subsequently kidnapped at Fair Oaks Park. The victim managed to escape and called 911 from a nearby restaurant on Austell Road. Investigators have arrested two suspects, identified as 18-year-old Edwin Flores Jr. and 24-year-old Nahomi Flores. It has been confirmed that the attack was not random, as the victim had some prior knowledge of at least one of the involved suspects.
Furthermore, a tragic case in Gwinnett County adds to the disturbing trend of violent crimes in and around Atlanta. A 28-year-old man named Oscar Cruz was kidnapped from his home and later found dead in a church parking lot after suffering 17 gunshot wounds. Investigators have charged Raymond Cooper, 34, with multiple crimes, including malice murder and kidnapping. Authorities report that Cooper forcibly entered Cruz’s home, bound him with duct tape, and transported him to Cannon United Methodist Church before committing the murder. Cooper’s arrest came after a months-long investigation.
These incidents underscore a troubling rise in gun violence and criminal acts throughout the Atlanta area, raising questions about overall safety and crime prevention measures. As the investigation into these incidents continues, law enforcement agencies urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
FAQ
What happened in southwest Atlanta on Thursday afternoon?
A man was injured in a shooting.
Where did the shooting occur?
The shooting took place in the 900 block of Conley Road SE.
How old was the victim of the Conley Road shooting?
The victim is a 23-year-old man.
Was there a child involved in the Conley Road shooting incident?
Yes, a child was inside the vehicle that fled the scene but was later found safe and unharmed.
What crime is Nicholas Ishmael Floyd wanted for?
Floyd is wanted for shooting a woman, setting a home on fire, and kidnapping a 12-year-old boy.
What happened to Oscar Cruz?
Oscar Cruz was kidnapped from his home and later found dead in a church parking lot after being shot 17 times.
Who is responsible for Oscar Cruz’s death?
Raymond Cooper is accused of forcibly entering Cruz’s home, binding him, and subsequently murdering him.
Chart of Key Incidents in Atlanta
| Incident | Location | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Shooting | 900 block of Conley Road SE | 23-year-old man injured; suspect fled with child |
| Shooting and Kidnapping | Bibb County | Nicholas Ishmael Floyd wanted for shooting woman and kidnapping a boy |
| Carjacking and Shooting | Fair Oaks Park, Marietta | Victim escaped after being shot at and kidnapped; two suspects arrested |
| Kidnapping and Murder | Gwinnett County | Oscar Cruz kidnapped and found dead after being shot 17 times; suspect arrested |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Manhunt for Teen in Bibb County
- Wikipedia: Unresolved Disappearances
- CNN: Georgia Police Shooting
- Google Search: Atlanta Violent Crime Statistics
- WSB TV: Gwinnett County Kidnapping and Murder
- Google Scholar: Gun Violence in Atlanta
- Atlanta News First: Marietta Carjacking Incident
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crime in Atlanta
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.
