ATLANTA, Ga. — A robbery on a popular stretch of Atlanta’s beltline is in the spotlight because of what was stolen from a teenager and how far the suspects went to take it.
Officers think a group of four people approached a 16-year-old, one of the four pulled a gun on them and demanded the teen hand over their hat.
“Stupid. It’s a hat,” said Dr. Henry Briggs. “Shooting somebody over a hat is very stupid.”
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Dr. Briggs is a dentist in the area where the robbery happened on Saturday around 9:30 pm. According to the police report, it happened on Ponce De Leon Ave NE. That’s near the Kroger and Ponce City Market.
Wednesday, Atlanta Police Department shared surveillance video that shows the four suspects walking around the beltline that night.
“It’s always shocking anytime anybody gets robbed, but then, it’s a kid,” said Briggs. “In this area, there is always something going on. So, I mean, maybe they need more security.”
“I feel like there should be more police presence on the beltline at all times,” said another familiar with the area, Ryan Spears.
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Channel 2 Reporter Courtney Francisco and Photojournalist Ebenezer Mends did see police patrolling this stretch of the beltline Wednesday before dark.
Neighbors like Spears fear if officers do not put a stop to the group soon, the violence could escalate.
“It can go further to killing someone,” said Spears.
The last thing neighbors want here is bullets flying around the crowded spot.
“Take all precautions when it comes to protecting yourself, your family, especially kids,” said Briggs.
Police said if you can help them get a conviction in this case, you can get a cash reward through Crime Stoppers. You can call anonymously at 404-577-TIPS.
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