In the early hours of May 1, 2018, a single gunshot shattered the morning quiet outside The Party Room nightclub on Memorial Drive in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Inside, a witness heard the sound and went to investigate, discovering the nightclub's co-owner, Rogelio Hackett, a 57-year-old African American man, lying on the ground. Emergency services were called, but Hackett had been fatally wounded.
The incident occurred around 5 a.m., following an event at the club the previous night.
Friends and family were left in shock and mourning, describing Hackett as a loving father and grandfather who was deeply passionate about his family and his business. In the days that followed, a memorial grew outside the nightclub, a testament to the impact he had on his community. He was remembered as a kind and generous individual who was a significant contributor to the local culture and economy.
DeKalb County police launched an investigation into the death of Rogelio Hackett, which they believe was the result of a random robbery. Despite their efforts, which included reviewing surveillance footage from the surrounding area, no suspects were immediately identified. As time passed, the case grew cold, and no arrests have ever been made in connection with his murder.
The unsolved nature of the crime has left a lasting impact on Hackett's family and the wider community, who still await justice for what they describe as a senseless act of violence. The investigation into the death of Rogelio Hackett remains open, and authorities continue to appeal to the public for any information that might lead to a breakthrough in the case. His death serves as a somber reminder of the lasting effects of violent crime on a community.
