Atlanta, August 3, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta commemorates a tragic milestone as it marks four years since the gruesome murder of Katie Janness and her dog, Bowie, in Piedmont Park. Found with over 50 stab wounds, the investigation remains ongoing with no arrests made. Local authorities have increased the reward for information to $25,000 as they continue to seek justice for Janness and her dog amidst community frustration over the unresolved case.
Atlanta has witnessed a tragic milestone, marking four years since the gruesome murder of Katie Janness and her dog, Bowie, in Piedmont Park. On July 28, 2021, Janness was discovered near the park entrance at 10th Street and Charles Allen Drive NE, having suffered over 50 stab wounds. The brutal nature of the crime was compounded by the fact that her dog was also found stabbed to death nearby. Disturbing details emerged from the crime scene, including letters that were carved into Janness’s body.
Janness’s girlfriend, Emma Clark, played a crucial role in the tragic discovery of their bodies after she used a phone tracking app to locate Janness when she failed to return home from an evening walk. The investigation into this heinous crime has consumed local authorities, with detectives noting that the severity and emotional intensity of the wounds suggest a level of familiarity between the victim and the perpetrator. Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified.
To encourage individuals with information regarding the case to come forward, Crime Stoppers recently increased the reward for information leading to an arrest from $10,000 to an impressive $25,000. The Atlanta Police Department has made it clear that they are prioritizing this case, with current efforts focused on analyzing DNA evidence that could potentially lead to a suspect’s identity. The police urge anyone with pertinent information to submit anonymous tips.
The continued lack of resolution in the case has sparked frustration among the visitors of Piedmont Park. A memorial bench has been established within the park in honor of Janness and her dog, providing a place for the community to reflect and remember the tragedy that unfolded. Following the incident, security measures in the park were upgraded, as investigators reported that the security cameras at the time of the murder were outdated and non-functional. New cameras have since been installed around the park’s perimeter.
Despite the efforts of local law enforcement, significant progress has not been made, but investigators are working alongside federal partners to explore new leads, including further DNA testing. The community’s response has been substantial, advocating for justice and raising awareness about the case. The Atlanta Police Department remains committed to finding answers and achieving justice for Katie Janness and Bowie.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Katie Janness and her dog?
Katie Janness and her dog, Bowie, were found murdered in Piedmont Park on July 28, 2021. Janness had suffered over 50 stab wounds, and her dog was found dead nearby.
Has anyone been arrested in this case?
No arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified as of now.
What is the current reward for information on the case?
The reward for information leading to an arrest has been increased to $25,000.
What security measures were upgraded following the incident?
After the murder, new security cameras were added along the park’s perimeter, as the existing cameras were outdated and not functioning at the time of the event.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Katie Janness |
| Incident Date | July 28, 2021 |
| Location | Piedmont Park, Atlanta |
| Cause of Death | Stabbing (over 50 wounds) |
| Dog’s Condition | Stabbed to death |
| Reward for Information | $25,000 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WRDW: Reward up to $25K offered for information in unsolved murder case
- WSB TV: Police raise reward to $25,000 in Katie Janness murder
- Fox 5 Atlanta: 4 Years Later, Katie Janness Murder Haunts Atlanta
- Google Search: Katie Janness murder
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Unsolved Murder
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.
