Atlanta, July 24, 2025
News Summary
A tragedy struck a southeast Atlanta community as Aaron Hines, known as ‘Coach Ball,’ was shot and killed on Thursday. At 33, he was a dedicated youth football coach mentoring young athletes in the Georgia Rattlers team. His death has left a profound impact on the community, prompting a vigil to honor his legacy. The Atlanta Police Department is actively investigating the shooting and has identified a person of interest.
Atlanta – A tragic incident unfolded in a southeast Atlanta townhome community on Thursday afternoon when Aaron Hines, a 33-year-old youth football coach, was fatally shot. Police responded to reports of gunfire at around 2:32 p.m. at 369 Skylar Way SE, where they found Hines with a single gunshot wound. Medics pronounced him dead at the scene, leaving family, friends, and community members in shock.
Known affectionately as “Coach Ball,” Hines had a profound impact on the youth he mentored through the Georgia Rattlers youth football team. He was the coach for 10- and 11-year-old boys at Washington Park, where he fostered not only athletic skills but also character development among the children. As news of his death reached the team, players and coaches were preparing for practice, leading to an emotional response from those who admired and respected him.
Witnesses have described Hines as a vital figure within the West Atlanta community, often seen volunteering his time to help young athletes grow both on and off the field. Family and community members have expressed their devastation over the loss, underlining the significant role he played in shaping the lives of many. The outpouring of grief highlights the impact Hines had beyond just being a coach; he was a mentor and a role model.
At this point, investigators have confirmed that Hines was not alone at the time of the shooting. However, specific details about his companions or events leading up to the shooting have not been disclosed. The Atlanta Police Department’s Homicide Unit is actively investigating the case, seeking to determine the motive behind the crime. A person of interest has been identified, but police have not released the identity of any suspects, nor have they provided specific information regarding potential motives.
In response to Hines’ tragic passing, a vigil is being organized for next week to commemorate his life and contributions to the community. The event will provide a space for those who knew him to come together, share memories, and honor his legacy as a dedicated coach and mentor.
The shooting has left a lasting void in the community and among the many young lives he touched. As more information comes to light, the Atlanta community continues to mourn the loss of a beloved youth football coach and hopeful leader.
FAQ
Who was Aaron Hines?
Aaron Hines was a 33-year-old youth football coach known affectionately as ‘Coach Ball’, who coached 10- and 11-year-old boys for the Georgia Rattlers team in Atlanta.
What happened to him?
Aaron Hines was shot and killed at a southeast Atlanta townhome community on Thursday afternoon.
Is anyone being investigated for his death?
Yes, the Atlanta Police Department’s Homicide Unit is actively investigating the case and has identified a person of interest, but no suspects have been named yet.
Will there be a memorial for Aaron Hines?
Yes, a vigil is being planned for next week in memory of Aaron Hines to honor his contributions to the community.
Key Information Overview
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | Thursday afternoon |
| Location | Southeast Atlanta, at 369 Skylar Way SE |
| Victim | Aaron Hines, 33, youth football coach |
| Team Coached | Georgia Rattlers, 10- and 11-year-old boys |
| Status of Investigation | Active, with a person of interest identified |
| Vigil Planned | Next week in honor of Aaron Hines |
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Additional Resources
- WSBTV: Man dead following shooting in townhome community SE Atlanta
- FOX 5 Atlanta: Deadly shooting rocks southeast Atlanta townhome community
- Atlanta News First: Apalachee High School head football coach resigns, cites PTSD, mental health
- Google Search: Aaron Hines shooting
- AJC: Does Nicolas Cage look like John Madden in new biopic shooting in Atlanta?
- Encyclopedia Britannica: shooting
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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