In the Washington Park neighborhood of northwest Atlanta, a dispute on September 9, 2022, escalated to a tragic end for 17-year-old Zaccardi Duke Dukes Jr. The young African American male was shot multiple times on Harwell Street NW in an altercation that cut his life short. Emergency services arrived at the scene to find Dukes with multiple gunshot wounds. He was quickly transported to Grady Memorial Hospital, but his injuries proved to be fatal, and he succumbed to them that evening.
The home where he was found is located near Washington Park and Booker T. Washington High School.
The Atlanta Police Department's homicide unit immediately began an investigation into the shooting. Initial findings suggested that the incident stemmed from a dispute, although the specific nature of the disagreement and the individuals involved have not been publicly disclosed. Investigators believe the shooter fled the scene after the incident. Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made in the case, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward to assist in bringing justice for Zaccardi and his family.
The community was deeply affected by the violent loss of a young life. Family and friends gathered to mourn and remember Zaccardi. A funeral service was held in his honor on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, at New Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, followed by his interment at Lincoln Cemetery. A public viewing was held the day before at Willie A. Watkins Historic West End Chapel. As of early 2026, the case remains under investigation.
