A quiet Sunday afternoon in the small, close-knit community of Palmetto, Georgia, was shattered by violence when a man was shot and killed outside a popular fast food restaurant. The shocking incident, which took place in the early afternoon, has prompted a major investigation by the Palmetto Police Department.
The tragedy unfolded just around 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, December 7, 2025, in the parking lot of the Bojangles restaurant located on Roosevelt Highway. The site is a common stop for locals, making the brazenness of the crime particularly disturbing for residents.
According to initial reports from police officials, the shooting was the result of a fight that escalated tragically outside of the establishment. Officers and fire personnel were dispatched to the scene at 9135 Roosevelt Highway after receiving an emergency call about a person being shot. They discovered a man with a fatal gunshot wound, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Crime scene tape quickly went up around the restaurant, turning a routine lunch spot into a focused investigation zone. Palmetto Police Chief Bryan Hergesell confirmed that his department is actively investigating the deadly encounter. Details regarding a potential suspect, the identity of the victim, or any arrests have not yet been released as authorities continue their work.
The incident is an unwelcome disruption to the usually calm atmosphere of Palmetto. Located mostly in Fulton County, this south Metro Atlanta community is situated approximately 25 miles southwest of the bustling city center. It is known for its “sparse suburban feel” and proximity to the Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, giving its residents a blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience.
With a population of around 5,071 residents, according to the 2020 U.S. Census, Palmetto is officially dubbed the “Friendly City”. Its official slogan promotes “Green Space, Blue Skies, Great People,” a quiet and community-oriented environment that many residents value. An act of deadly violence in a busy commercial area on a weekend afternoon cuts sharply against that idyllic local image.
The Palmetto Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed the initial fight or the shooting to come forward with information. Investigators are working to piece together the events that led to the death of one man and the sudden, shocking closure of a community fixture. As the investigation continues, the police and city leaders are focused on restoring a sense of safety and calm to the area after this tragic day.