Atlanta Police Arrest Second Suspect in Fatal Shooting
Authorities apprehended 18-year-old Latonian Patterson following the death of Evans Tshongwe at South Bend Park.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Financial Crime
Atlanta police and FBI agents arrested 18-year-old Latonian Patterson for the September 2026 murder of 49-year-old Evans Tshongwe. The suspect is now held at the Fulton County Jail alongside a co-defendant arrested earlier this month.
Why it matters
The arrest marks a major step in the ongoing investigation into the violent incident at South Bend Park. Authorities continue to process the multiple felony charges filed against both suspects involved in the shooting death.
Both Latonian Patterson and 19-year-old Markel Daniel face identical charges of felony murder, aggravated assault, criminal attempt to commit a felony, and firearm possession. The suspects remain in detention while the investigation proceeds.
The players
Latonian Patterson
He is an 18-year-old suspect charged with felony murder and other violent crimes in connection to the South Bend Park shooting.
Markel Daniel
He is a 19-year-old suspect currently in custody facing the same set of felony charges as his co-defendant.
Evans Tshongwe
The 49-year-old victim of the shooting died at South Bend Park in early September.
FBI Violent Crime Task Force
This interagency unit coordinates with local police departments to investigate and apprehend suspects in major violent crimes.
The details
Local police joined forces with the FBI Violent Crime Task Force to execute the arrest of Patterson. The suspects are currently awaiting further legal proceedings after being booked on multiple serious felony counts following the victim's death.
Timeline
September 2, 2026: Evans Tshongwe died at South Bend Park.
September 16, 2026: Markel Daniel was arrested for the shooting.
September 24, 2026: Latonian Patterson was arrested.
Legal Context
This case follows the standard investigative pattern set by the Atlanta Police Department's collaborative task force protocols for processing violent crimes. Recent shifts in local enforcement have emphasized interagency cooperation to address increases in gun-related felonies.
The apprehension of these suspects reduces the immediate threat to the area surrounding South Bend Park. Residents should continue to follow official updates from Atlanta authorities regarding security measures in local parks.
The takeaway
The swift arrest of both suspects highlights the effective collaboration between federal and local investigative units in handling violent crime cases. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to help maintain local safety.
Further reading
For more on local law enforcement efforts, visit the Financial Crime section.
