Police investigate fatal shooting in Austell

COBB COUNTY, Ga. — Police are investigating a shooting that claimed the life of a Cobb County father.

The shooting happened at the Windwood Apartments in the 6000 block of Shenandoah Trail in Mableton.

Police said they began receiving calls of reported gunfire in the area around 12:30 a.m. Wednesday.

When they arrived on the scene, they said they found a man who suffered at least one gunshot wound.

Police identified the victim as Anthony Terrell Tavarez, 23, of Mableton. The victim’s family says he did not live at the complex.

Neighbors said Tavarez was playing dice when an argument started. They said a man went back to his car, grabbed an assault rifle and started firing.

In all, 13 bullet holes riddled the complex.

Sean McCoy said he went to bed after a man told him he had a bad feeling about something.

He was awakened a short time later with bullet holes everywhere, including near where his daughter usually sits.

“When I saw the bullet hole, that’s when it really hit me how serious it was. They could have killed my baby,” he said.

Investigators said they found Tavarez dead, lying outside the rear of the apartment building. They also towed an SUV that family members said belonged to Tavarez.

“He was a good hearted kid, you know. He finished school and everything, and I just don’t see how someone could take his life like that,” the victim’s uncle, Tyrone Tucker, said.

Family members said Tavarez was the father of a 1-year-old, and his girlfriend is 6 month pregnant with his second child.

Tavarez’ father is a 20-year veteran of the Atlanta Police Department.

The victim’s grandmother said he had just visited her Tuesday.

“He gave me a big hug. I didn’t think I’d never see him again,” Bobbie Hall said.

As police searched for clues, community activist Monica Delancy met parents at the afternoon bus stop to help calm fears.

“Anytime there’s any type of tragedy in the area, the first thing is safety. That’s why I wanted to make sure we provide resources, our phone number, to remind people the Austell Community Task Force is in the community,” she said.

Police do not have anyone in custody. Tavarez’ family said they are working on funeral arrangements.

WSBTV