Georgia Tech Student Murdered in Atlanta Shooting

Police lights at night near a residential building in Atlanta

News Summary

A 21-year-old man has been charged with the murder of a Georgia Tech student following a fatal shooting incident in Midtown Atlanta. The suspect, Nigel Belser, was captured on surveillance entering the victim’s apartment building before waiting in a stairwell. The victim, Akash Banerjee, was shot and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Authorities continue to investigate the motive and the circumstances surrounding the targeted attack, raising community concerns about safety in residential areas.

Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia Tech Student Murdered, Suspect Charged

Nigel Belser, a 21-year-old man, has been charged with the murder of 22-year-old Akash Banerjee, a Georgia Tech student, following a fatal shooting incident that took place on May 18 at The Connector Apartments in Midtown Atlanta. Belser has been charged with multiple felonies, including murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, after he surrendered to Fulton County Jail on Sunday.

According to the arrest affidavit, Belser allegedly entered the victim’s apartment building by tailgating behind two residents, utilizing their access to pass through security measures. Surveillance footage shows Belser entering The Connector through the parking garage around 4 p.m., carrying a light blue Gatorade bottle.

Once inside, Belser followed the other residents onto the elevator and went to the ninth floor, where Banerjee’s apartment was situated. The suspect reportedly waited in a stairwell for approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, donning a black face mask. During this time, he was recorded walking back and forth between the stairwell and Banerjee’s apartment.

Banerjee left his apartment to make a quick trip to a nearby BP gas station and returned roughly twelve minutes later. Upon his return, Banerjee encountered Belser in the stairwell and appeared startled. It is alleged that Belser then shot Banerjee in the forehead and subsequently pistol-whipped him before fleeing the scene via the garage.

When police arrived, they found Banerjee unconscious. He was quickly transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have not yet determined a motive for the shooting, nor have they confirmed whether Belser and Banerjee were previously acquainted.

Belser was reportedly residing at the nearby University House on Spring Street at the time of the incident. His defense attorney indicated that Belser has no prior criminal record and has strong community ties.

The investigation into the shooting is currently ongoing, with police considering the attack to be targeted. The management team at The Connector has been contacted regarding the potential need for improvements to security measures in response to this tragic event.

The incident has raised significant concerns within the community regarding safety in residential buildings, particularly those housing students. The Atlanta police department continues to investigate the events surrounding the shooting and has urged anyone with additional information to come forward.

As this case develops, further updates will be provided to the public, particularly regarding any new findings in the investigation or modifications to the residential security protocols at facilities like The Connector.