Homeless Man Killed During Encampment Clearing in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward

At approximately 12:00 PM on January 16, 2025, Atlanta Police officers responded to a call regarding an injured person at 300 Old Wheat St NE. The victim, identified as Cornelius Taylor, a homeless man residing in a nearby encampment, was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. The encampment was being cleared by a bulldozer as part of an operation led by the Department of Public Works.

The Atlanta Police Department’s homicide unit has taken the lead in the investigation into Taylor’s death. Authorities noted that the information provided is preliminary and subject to change as the investigation progresses.

A vigil for Taylor is scheduled for Friday, January 17, at 6:00 PM on Old Wheat Street, across from Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens released a statement expressing sorrow over the incident, saying, “I am saddened by this terrible incident and extend my thoughts and prayers to the family of the deceased. We will review each of our processes and procedures and take every precaution to ensure this never happens again as we continue our important work to house our unsheltered population.”

Cathryn Vassell, CEO of Partners for HOME, also commented, describing the clearing of the encampment as part of an ongoing effort to connect unsheltered individuals with stable housing and resources. According to Vassell, outreach efforts at this encampment began in April 2024, with individuals transitioning to shelters starting in June. To date, 21 individuals from the site have been provided with shelter and housing.

The investigation remains active, and further details about the incident have not yet been released.