Man Shot at Gas Station, Woman Attacked in Apartment Complex

This week has seen a significant number of violent attacks in public places.  Last evening, a man was shot at a gas station in Dunwoody.  As police investigated well into the night, the motive for the slaying was unclear.  The young man, white and in his late 20's or early 30's, has not yet been identified.  A suspect has not yet been identified either.  Some reporters commented that police officers investigating the incident seemed to be paying particular attention to a back, dinmly lit corner of the gas station.  Officers did not make their reason for paying attention to that spot clear, however.  Tragically, the young man was pronounced dead upon arrival at an area hospital.

Early Thursday morning, resident Khaliliah Saunders heard screams echoing in her Canterbury Road apartment complex. A resident was being attacked by a man Atlanta Police Detective Tez Peavy believes is responsible for several assaults in North Atlanta.  Fortunately, this victim was able to get away.  Saunders reported that she began carrying mace with her after being jumped in the parking lot of her Buckhead apartment last year.  The woman's attacker was caught on video entering and exiting the complex through the security gate.  The vehicle was a silver or grey 1996 to 1999 Buick Riveria. 

These incidents remind us all to use extra caution in public areas.  While it is impossible to prevent all attacks, being aware of your surroundings is important.  Look for well-lit gas stations with security present before deciding to stop.  Try to keep your gas tank always about half full so you'll never be forced to stop in an unsafe location.  Of course, when choosing a home, condo, or apartment, pay careful attention to the neighborhood and security measures in place.  While a secured entrance is important, as one resident learned this week, it isn't always enough.  Look for well-lit roads and parking lots, video camera surveillance, and security personnel patrolling the area.  Ask prospective landlords about crime rates on their property and in the area and research those rates yourself to confirm.  While nothing can guarantee your safety, taking adequate prevention measures can help ensure that you're as safe as possible.