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GSU graduate shot during house gathering

ATLANTA — Students are mourning the loss of a Georgia State classmate who was fatally shot overnight in southeast Atlanta.

Police said 23-year-old Ayokunle Lumpkin, of Kennesaw, was a four-year player for the GSU soccer team.

One student told Channel 2 Action News that an accident involving her SUV led to the gunfire that took Lumpkin's life. She and her parents came to pick up her black Hummer from the home on Milton Avenue on Sunday morning.

The student said the tragedy began with a driver passing by, hitting her Hummer that was parked outside the residence.

Sources said that's when Lumpkin went after the vehicle, caught up with the driver and got into an argument. Moments later, shots were fired.

"It was a dispute that took place; a verbal dispute," Atlanta Police Sgt. Robert Porter said.

Police said Lumpkin was shot in the chest and died at Grady Memorial Hospital.

People in the neighborhood said they are shocked to learn about the young man's death.

"That is ridiculous that someone had to get killed that didn't even know what was going on. Just trying to save someone else or you know," Tiffany Johnson said.

Witnesses provided a vehicle description, license plate number and physical description of the suspected shooter.

Police have not yet made any arrests in the case.

"Everyone in the Georgia State soccer family is devastated by this tragic loss. Our hearts go out to Ayokunle's family," GSU men's soccer coach Brett Surrency said in a statement. "He was a wonderful teammate and friend with a great personality and a bright future. He always had a smile on his face, and everyone enjoyed being around him. He will be greatly missed."

A vigil will be held for Lumpkin tonight at the Alexan 360 Apartments at 180 Jackson St. in northeast Atlanta.