Homicide Suspect Arrested After Fictitious Domestic Disturbance Call in Riverdale

On September 9, 2024, Clayton County Police Field Training Officer S. Franklin and her trainee, Officer A. Rodriguez, responded to a domestic disturbance call at 465 Paxton Place in Riverdale, Georgia. The report, made by a third party not on the scene, alleged that an adult male had pulled a gun on the family and attempted to pistol-whip his mother.

Upon arrival, the officers spoke with a female resident who claimed that nothing had occurred and everything was fine. Despite this, Officer Franklin and Officer Rodriguez continued their investigation due to the seriousness of the allegations. They requested to speak with other individuals in the home to ensure their wellbeing. During this process, the officers encountered Matt Washington Jr., who was found fully clothed, hiding under bed sheets and pretending to be asleep.

The officers conducted a name and date of birth check on Washington, revealing that he was wanted by the Atlanta Police Department for a homicide committed on September 2, 2024. Washington was immediately arrested without incident.

Authorities believe that the reported domestic disturbance was likely a fictitious call, possibly made to tip off law enforcement about Washington’s location. No injuries or altercations occurred during the arrest.