ATLANTA, GA – Authorities in Georgia are offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of suspects involved in a fatal robbery on Monday evening. The incident, which resulted in the death of 44-year-old Samuel “JR” Harris and the theft of his dog, occurred in southwest Atlanta.
According to the Atlanta Police Department, Harris was walking his dog, Tequilla, near Mitchell Street SW and Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard SW around 8 p.m. when he was accosted by a group of individuals. The encounter escalated into a robbery during which Harris was fatally shot. Investigators believe Harris was specifically targeted by the assailants who also abducted his dog, Tequilla, who remains missing.
In the aftermath of the tragic incident, Harris’ family has prioritized finding the perpetrators and recovering Tequilla. Mary Boykins, Harris’ mother, learned of her son’s untimely death the following morning from a police officer. She expressed her disbelief and shock, likening the experience to a nightmare.
Harris’ family has been active in the neighborhood, distributing flyers and urging anyone with information to come forward. Lea Harris, JR’s wife of 15 years, expressed her grief and the family’s desperate need for answers.
The family’s plea extends to the return of Tequilla, with Harris’ sister, Liz Robinson, expressing that having the dog back would provide some solace as a remaining connection to Harris.
The Atlanta police are seeking the public’s assistance in solving the case. Crime Stoppers Atlanta has offered a $2,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in Harris’ murder, and the family has added an additional $5,000 to the reward. Tips can be submitted to the Atlanta police’s Homicide Unit or anonymously to Crime Stoppers Atlanta.