Marietta Man Found Shot Dead at Car Wash, Investigation Underway

UPDATE: On Monday night, January 13, 2025, 70-year-old Robert Baker of Marietta was arrested and charged in the murder of Daniel Lanard Richardson Jr. Detectives were able to identify Baker via the use technology as well as witness statements collected during their investigation. Baker and Richardson were acquaintances, but the extent of their relationship is still unknown. Baker is being held without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center facing Felony Murder, Felony Aggravated Assault, and Felony Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime on warrant 25-W-320.

Original Post:

On Monday, December 30, 2024, at approximately 8:00 PM, Cobb County 911 dispatch received a call reporting a man lying on the ground in the middle of a car wash bay at 1250 Bellemeade Drive in Marietta. The caller stated that the man appeared unresponsive and may require medical attention.

Marietta officers, Cobb County Sheriff’s Deputies, Marietta Fire, and Metro Ambulance responded to the scene and confirmed that the man had been shot. Despite the efforts of first responders, the victim, identified as 59-year-old Daniel Lanard Richardson Jr. of Marietta, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The investigation remains active, and no further details are available at this time. Authorities are asking the public for help in identifying the person or persons responsible for the shooting.

Anyone with information related to the death of Daniel Lanard Richardson Jr. or who may be familiar with him is urged to contact the Marietta Police Department. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crimestoppers Greater Atlanta or the new tip411 MariettaPD app. To submit a tip using the tip411 system, download the MARIETTA PD app or text keyword MARIETTAPD followed by the tip to 847411.