FBI Fugitive Wanted for Killing Pregnant Girlfriend in Philadelphia Captured in Atlanta

On March 8th, 2025, officers with the Atlanta Police Department initiated a traffic stop at 850 Oak Street SW at approximately 4:48 PM after their license plate reader alerted them to a 2017 Chevy Equinox with an invalid registration. The male driver, later identified as Justin Smith, initially provided false identification information, claiming his name was “Prince Kareem.”

Despite attempts to verify the driver’s identity, officers were unable to obtain any results. When asked to provide his name and date of birth in writing, the information still did not match any records. Due to the uncertainty surrounding his identity and the possibility of him lacking a valid driver’s license, officers decided to detain him for further investigation.

However, as officers approached the vehicle to detain him, Smith put the vehicle in drive and attempted to flee. After a brief foot chase, officers successfully apprehended him without further incident. A search following his arrest revealed Smith in possession of a fraudulent identification card, which also yielded no results.

Using a fingerprint scanning device, officers finally identified the suspect as 27-year-old Justin Smith. It was later revealed that Smith was a fugitive with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), wanted for his involvement in the 2021 murder of his pregnant 21-year-old girlfriend, whose body was discovered in April 2021. Smith had an active federal arrest warrant out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for Unlawful Flight to Avoid Prosecution.

Smith was charged with No Tag/No Decal and Use of a Fraudulent License/ID. He was transported to the City of Atlanta Jail for processing. The FBI was notified of his capture, and he will face federal charges related to his murder case.

“The apprehension of Justin Smith is a testament to the perseverance of law enforcement and strong partnerships across jurisdictions,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, special agent in charge of FBI Philadelphia. “While his arrest cannot undo the tragedy of this crime, it is a step in the pursuit of justice for Dianna and her child, her family, and our city.”