Atlanta authorities have taken a suspect into custody following a series of violent attacks that left two dead, including a federal employee of the Department of Homeland Security. The suspect was apprehended after a multi-agency manhunt that concluded early Tuesday morning.
Lauren Bullis, 40, was walking her dog in Decatur when she was shot six times and killed in what police initially described as a random act of violence. Bullis served as a professional auditor for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security at the time of her death.
The suspect, identified as 26-year-old Olaolukitan Adon Abel, is now facing multiple charges of murder and aggravated assault. Law enforcement officials have linked Abel to a violent spree that includes the death of another woman and the shooting of a homeless man.
Investigators are currently working to determine if Bullis was targeted due to her role within the federal government. While her position involved auditing financial records, officials have not yet confirmed any personal or professional link between her and the suspect.
The Department of Homeland Security issued a statement expressing condolences to the Bullis family while noting they are cooperating with the investigation. The agency has not released details regarding her recent auditing assignments.
The Trump administration has been briefed on the development of the case as federal agencies assist local law enforcement with forensic analysis. The White House has not yet issued a formal comment on the ongoing criminal proceedings.
Neighbors in Decatur described Bullis as a dedicated public servant and a frequent fixture in the community. Local police have increased visibility in the area to reassure residents following the week of violence that gripped the metropolitan region.
Olaolukitan Adon Abel remains in custody without bond at this time. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are currently processing evidence from several crime scenes associated with the suspect.
The third victim of the spree, a man shot while sleeping outdoors, is expected to survive his injuries. Authorities believe the weapon recovered during Abel's arrest matches the ballistics found at all three shooting locations.
This case has drawn significant attention to public safety concerns in the Atlanta area. Legal proceedings for Abel are expected to begin later this week as prosecutors compile the full list of charges related to the multi-day crime spree.