Shooting Near NCAA Tournament Venue Leaves One Dead in Atlanta

ATLANTA, Ga. — Atlanta police are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred Friday evening near the intersection of Luckie Street NW and Mills Street NW, just blocks from State Farm Arena, where the NCAA College Basketball tournament’s Sweet 16 is taking place.

The shooting was reported around 6:45 p.m. Police arrived to find a 42-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition but later died from his injuries.

Authorities have not released the victim’s identity nor disclosed if any suspects are in custody. The circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation, and police said there is no immediate indication the shooting is related to the NCAA tournament.

Just minutes prior to the shooting, the game between the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels and No. 2 Michigan State Spartans was set to tip off, adding to the heavy foot traffic in the area.

In light of the ongoing tournament, Atlanta police had previously warned visitors to remain vigilant due to the size of the event. “The Atlanta Police Department is well-versed in managing large-scale events and remains fully prepared to support the safety of both visitors and residents during this high-profile weekend,” the department stated.

This situation is still developing. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.