Mayor asks FBI to look into death in Piedmont Park

ATLANTA — Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed has asked the FBI to investigate the death of an African-American man found hanging from a tree in Piedmont Park.

Investigators said it appears the man took his own life.

Reed issued the following statement Thursday evening:

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of a young man's life last night in Piedmont Park. This disturbing event demands our full attention. The Atlanta Police Department (APD) is conducting a robust investigation into his death and I have asked to receive regular briefings on the status of the investigation. We have also referred the case to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Everything we have seen suggests that there was no foul play involved, but I want to state clearly and unequivocally that we will not prejudge the circumstances surrounding this young man's death. APD will share all evidence discovered in the course of the investigation. We ask for the public's support and cooperation as we work to resolve this matter."

Cox Media Group