News

Arrest made in double-murder cold case

ATLANTA — A year and a half after the two men were shot to death in their apartment, police say they have the man responsible in custody.

Police tell Channel 2 Action News they were able link Derrick Burden to a double homicide on Richmond Circle in September 2010.

Now, investigators say the families of Samuel Blizzard Jr. and Calvin Street can finally begin the healing process.

"There is nothing to say when you walk into to two dead bodies, one is your family member, the other your friend… nothing but tears," said Charles Pettaway, cousin of Samuel Blizzard Jr.

"Kind of silence right away. Don't think they expected something like that to happen after this long," said Michael Willis, the detective working the case.

Police believe Derrick Burden met Calvin Street at a gas station and went back to the apartment of the victims. Once there, he attempted to rob them.

"Shot two people in cold blood in the head," Willis said.

Willis attributes the arrest to the thorough evidence collection by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation on the night of the double homicide.

For Willis, he is glad to bring some closure to the families.

"It was extremely gratifying, again the most satisfaction is when I called the family," Willis said.
"It means everything to me," Pettaway said.

Police are currently following new leads that might link Burden to a string of other crimes.  

We will continue to follow this and update you as soon as we learn more.

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