Share and Follow
A tragic incident unfolded at a Georgia elementary school parking lot on Tuesday, where a woman lost her life in what appears to be a domestic altercation, according to school authorities.
The identity of the victim from the shooting at Palmetto Elementary School remains undisclosed, as reported by WSB. The suspect, apprehended in Houston County, over 100 miles from the scene, faces charges including cruelty to children, reckless driving, and evading law enforcement.
Christopher Ates, aged 39, is expected to confront murder-related charges once he is transferred to Fulton County.
Fox 5 Atlanta reported that Ates was captured following a brief pursuit that ended when his vehicle crashed.
In response to the incident, Palmetto Elementary Principal Jacqueline Bowens communicated with parents through a letter, as noted by WSB.
“While this is an incredibly difficult circumstance for our community, I want to reassure you that no Palmetto Elementary students or staff were involved, and at no time were individuals inside our building in danger,” Bowens wrote.
Palmetto’s 550 students were moved to Bear Creek Middle School in Fairburn, Palmetto Police said.
Bowens said the school would open on Wednesday with counselor and additional support staff available.