Atlanta, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Santos Wyatt, a 27-year-old comedian and father, was killed during a mass shooting on Edgewood Avenue in Atlanta, leaving multiple others injured. His family remembers him as a devoted parent and aspiring entrepreneur. Authorities are investigating the incident, which is part of a troubling trend of gun violence in the city. Community leaders aim to enhance safety measures as they rally around Wyatt’s family, who are receiving support through a GoFundMe campaign. The city plans to increase police presence and install security cameras to prevent further incidents.
Atlanta – Santos Wyatt, a 27-year-old comedian and devoted father, was fatally shot during a mass shooting on Edgewood Avenue early on July 28. The incident occurred around 1:27 a.m. near a streetcar stop in the historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood. Wyatt was one of at least 11 individuals hit during the shooting, which left another 10 injured as well.
Wyatt is remembered lovingly by his mother, Colandra Atkinson, and his siblings as a family man who dedicated his life to providing for his 8-year-old son, Santos Jr. His dream was to open his own body shop, reflecting his passion for cars and commitment to hard work. Atkinson expressed her profound grief, noting that she would never wish the pain of losing a child on any mother.
In the aftermath of the shooting, which police believe was sparked by a dispute, no immediate arrests were made; however, law enforcement began searching for three men and a woman believed to be connected to the incident. Later on, 19-year-old Rico Arnold was arrested during a traffic stop and faces charges including murder and aggravated assault.
In response to the violence, which saw multiple shootings occur throughout the city leading to a total of 29 people shot over the weekend, the city has announced measures to bolster safety on Edgewood Avenue. Plans include increasing police patrols and installing security cameras in the area. Additionally, Mayor Andre Dickens emphasized the city’s commitment to violence prevention and engagement initiatives for the youth, especially following this spike in gun violence incidents.
The community is rallying around Wyatt’s family, with a GoFundMe campaign established to support his son and honor his legacy. A public viewing was scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday at MD Walker Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. Saturday at Liberty Baptist Church.
As investigators continue to review surveillance footage and solicit information from witnesses, the public remains on alert as community leaders and officials strive to stem the tide of gun violence in Atlanta.
Community Response
The shooting has sparked widespread concern among Atlanta residents, prompting discussions on strategies to enhance safety and prevent further violence. Community members are coming together to support Wyatt’s family, while local leaders are focused on implementing programs that address the root causes of gun violence.
Background Context
Gun violence in Atlanta has seen an uptick, with the recent mass shooting on Edgewood Avenue reflecting a troubling trend in crime across the city. Law enforcement is increasingly concerned about the factors contributing to this rise and is urging community members to play a proactive role in violence prevention efforts.
Conclusion
The tragic shooting that claimed Santos Wyatt’s life is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles with gun violence in Atlanta. Family, friends, and community members are now focused on seeking justice and ensuring that this tragedy sparks meaningful change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Santos Wyatt?
Santos Wyatt was killed during a mass shooting on Edgewood Avenue, which left several others injured. The incident occurred in the early hours of July 28.
How many people were shot during the incident?
At least 11 people were shot during the mass shooting, with 10 others sustaining injuries.
What actions is the city taking to address gun violence?
The city plans to increase police patrols and install security cameras in the area, along with ongoing initiatives focusing on youth engagement and violence prevention.
When are the public viewing and funeral services for Santos Wyatt?
The public viewing is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Friday at MD Walker Funeral Home, followed by the funeral service at 1 p.m. on Saturday at Liberty Baptist Church.
Chart: Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | July 28 |
| Location | Edgewood Avenue, Sweet Auburn neighborhood |
| Victim | Santos Wyatt, 27 |
| Injuries | 11 shot, 10 others injured |
| Arrests Made | Rico Arnold, 19, charged with murder and aggravated assault |
| Community Response | GoFundMe established for Wyatt’s son, public support, increased police presence |
| Future Actions | Security cameras installation and youth engagement initiatives |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Surge in Gun Violence Strikes Atlanta Over the Weekend
Tragic Shooting in Atlanta’s Sweet Auburn Neighborhood
Atlanta Faces Surge in Gun Violence Over the Weekend
Additional Resources
- AJC: Justice for Edgewood Shooting Victim
- WSBTV: Family Grieves Edgewood Ave Shooting Victim
- Atlanta News First: Arrest in Edgewood Shooting
- Wikipedia: Gun Violence in the United States
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Sweet Auburn Mass Shooting
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mass Shooting
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.
