Two Arrested for December 2024 Fatal Shooting in Atlanta

Atlanta Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the December 1, 2024, fatal shooting of Matt Dearing, a Navy veteran, at 1726 Centra Villa Drive SW.

On January 16, 2025, 32-year-old Lavette Roker was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant for Party to a Crime, Murder. That same day, 33-year-old Nekeisha Crenshaw self-surrendered to authorities on outstanding warrants for Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony.

The incident unfolded when a woman reportedly arrived at the house armed with a gun. According to Channel 2 News, Matt Dearing’s brother, Chris Dearing, stated the woman was angry at Matt’s barber, the father of her child. Chris said the woman pointed a gun at Matt and demanded $200, allegedly for their child’s birthday party.

Chris further stated that one of the woman’s relatives also arrived at the scene with a firearm. Despite Matt’s efforts to de-escalate the situation, shots were fired, resulting in his death.

Matt Dearing, 55, was transported to a local hospital following the shooting, where he was later pronounced deceased.

The investigation is ongoing.