Officer Involved in Fatal Shooting of Veteran at Atlanta VA Medical Center Will Not Face Charges

DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston has announced that no charges will be brought against the officer involved in the January 29, 2024, shooting death of 58-year-old veteran John Robert Smith, Jr., at the Atlanta VA Medical Center on Clairmont Road.

After a thorough review of all evidence, including body-worn camera footage, Boston concluded that the officer’s use of force was legally justified. Earlier this week, Boston and members of her team met with Smith’s family to present the evidence, including the video from the officer’s body camera.

“Although Mr. Smith’s death was a tragedy, the evidence shows that under the law, the officer who shot Mr. Smith was justified in his use of force, and he will not be charged. Our office has now closed this case,” said Boston.

Smith had arrived at the VA Medical Center that evening, expressing to staff that he was having thoughts of harming himself or someone else. While medical personnel and a social worker were in the process of admitting him, Smith retrieved a knife from his belongings. Officers from the VA Police Department responded, attempting to de-escalate the situation by repeatedly asking Smith to drop the knife.

At one point, Smith followed a hospital employee into an enclosed room and advanced toward him with the weapon. Fearing for the employee’s life, one officer opened fire, striking Smith. Officers and medical professionals immediately rendered aid, but Smith did not survive.

“Mr. Smith’s death is a painful reminder of the struggles our veterans face, even long after their service officially ends. We grieve with his family and offer them our deepest condolences,” Boston said.

The case is now closed following the determination that the officer’s actions were justified.