In a tragic turn of events that was part of a larger, terrifying chapter in Atlanta's history, Alvin George, a 31-year-old Black man, was found deceased on March 20, 1986. His body was discovered in an alleyway off Kennesaw Avenue, having been stabbed multiple times in the neck.
The investigation into George's death would eventually lead authorities to a suspect named Michael Devern Terry.
Terry, who lived near where George's body was found, was identified as a person of interest after witnesses described seeing a man matching his description with several of the victims in a string of similar murders. He was arrested on November 26, 1986, at his job in Lithonia.
Following his arrest, Terry confessed to killing George and five other young, Black men between 1985 and 1986. He claimed the killings were in self-defense, occurring after arguments over payment for sexual encounters. Despite his claims, he was brought to trial.
Terry was ultimately convicted for the murders of Richard Williams and Curtis Brown, receiving two consecutive life sentences. To avoid further trials, he later pleaded guilty to the remaining murders, including that of Alvin George, and received three additional consecutive life terms. Terry is currently serving his multiple life sentences. The resolution of the case brought a measure of justice for the victims and their families, closing a dark period of fear and violence in the city.
