Tragedy at Atlanta Picnic: Two Dead After Gunfire Erupts at Kappa Alpha Psi Gathering

ATLANTA, GA – A summer gathering meant to celebrate brotherhood and community turned deadly on Saturday, June 28, when gunfire erupted at a Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. picnic in Atlanta’s Coan Park. The shooting left two men dead and two others injured, shaking members of the fraternity and the broader HBCU and Divine Nine communities.

Gunfire Shatters a Peaceful Fraternity Picnic

The picnic, officially permitted and organized by local members of Kappa Alpha Psi, was held at Coan Park in the city’s Kirkwood neighborhood. Around 8 p.m., according to Atlanta police, an uninvited man wearing a face mask arrived and instigated a confrontation with attendees.

As the situation escalated, multiple people reportedly drew weapons. Witnesses say members of the fraternity attempted to de-escalate the situation, but the suspect opened fire. Several legally armed fraternity members returned fire, hitting the alleged shooter.

When officers arrived, they found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Two men later died from their injuries, and two others were hospitalized—one in stable condition, and another with a graze wound.

Victims Identified: A Mentor and a Young Man Caught in Conflict

Authorities identified the two deceased as:

• Anthony Pearson, 33 – shot in the head and pronounced dead at the scene. Pearson was not involved in the argument and was described by witnesses as trying to protect others and defuse the situation. He was a mentor and beloved figure within the fraternity, known for his leadership and warmth.
  

  “He was going to make you feel like family,” said Pearson’s sister in an interview with FOX 5 Atlanta. “When our dad passed, Anthony stepped up. That’s why I call him my little big brother—because he took that role seriously.”

• Justin Minnitee, 23 – identified by police as the individual who initiated the dispute. He was shot multiple times and later died from his injuries at Grady Memorial Hospital.

The identities of the other two individuals who were injured have not yet been released.

Community Reacts: Mourning and Outrage

The tragedy has sparked deep mourning across Atlanta’s HBCU and Divine Nine networks. Fraternity gatherings are more than social events—they are a cornerstone of Black cultural life, offering space for mentorship, community bonding, and multigenerational connection.

That such a violent act occurred during one of these events has raised renewed concerns about gun violence at public gatherings, particularly those rooted in Black excellence and cultural unity.

“Fraternity picnics are sacred to us,” said one attendee. “To see this happen in a space that’s always been about brotherhood and joy—it’s devastating.”

Investigation Ongoing

The Atlanta Police Department’s Homicide Unit is actively investigating the shooting. No arrests have been announced as of press time. Police are reviewing surveillance footage, gathering witness statements, and encouraging the public to come forward with any relevant information.

Anyone with details is asked to contact Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

Conclusion

The deaths of Anthony Pearson and Justin Minnitee mark another painful chapter in a summer already marked by gun violence. But for those who knew Pearson, his memory stands as a reminder of the kind of leadership, mentorship, and brotherhood that organizations like Kappa Alpha Psi strive to embody.

As the investigation continues, the community is left mourning the loss of a man who showed up to support his brothers—and never made it home.