Atlanta, GA (February 27, 2019) – On Tuesday, February 26, 2019, the GBI was requested by the Atlanta Police Department (APD) to conduct an officer involved shooting investigation. Preliminary information indicates that APD and East Point Police Department (EPPD) were conducting a joint investigation into stolen vehicles in the Atlanta area. At approximately 2:44 p.m., officers attempted to stop a suspected stolen vehicle on the exit ramp of I-285 and Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway NW. The vehicle initially pulled over, but sped away as an officer approached. Officers followed the vehicle to the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive SW and Whitehouse Drive SW, when the vehicle wrecked, striking marked and unmarked police vehicles. After the wreck occurred, officers from APD and EPPD fired their weapons. The driver, identified as Willie Banks, 34, of Atlanta, was struck in the leg and transported to Grady Memorial Hospital where he is in stable condition.

One APD officer sustained non-life threatening injuries.  He was treated at Grady Memorial Hospital and released.

The GBI will continue its independent investigation. Once complete, it will be turned over to the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office for review. 

Contact Information:

Natalie Ammons - Public Affairs Deputy Director - 404-270-8332