Atlanta Man Convicted of Murdering Friend Over $35 Debt

DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston announced today the conviction of an Atlanta man in connection with the shooting death of a friend over a $35 debt.

Rickey Carter, 65, was found guilty by DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Tangela Barrie on charges of Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony. The charges stem from the fatal shooting of Quinlan Parker, 48, on January 28, 2022.

According to the investigation, DeKalb County Police responded to a call regarding a person shot at an apartment on Maypop Lane in unincorporated Decatur. Upon arrival, officers discovered Parker deceased from a single gunshot wound to the chest.

Parker’s wife recounted that Carter, a longtime friend of her husband, arrived at their residence shortly after Parker returned home from work. An argument ensued over money borrowed by Parker weeks prior. Carter then brandished a handgun, leading to the fatal shooting. The confrontation was captured on video by Parker’s stepdaughter, disproving Carter’s claim of self-defense.

Following the verdict, Judge Barrie sentenced Carter to Life plus five years in prison.

The prosecution team consisted of Senior Assistant District Attorney Tauri Thomas, Assistant District Attorney Emily Donkervoet, District Attorney Investigator Christopher Hollowood, and Supervising Victim Advocate Ikwo Nyong. DeKalb County Police Department Detective Monts led the initial investigation.