In the early morning hours of January 17, 2016, a distressing discovery was made on the southbound side of Interstate 75 in Cherokee County, Georgia. A man was found lying in the emergency lane with a gunshot wound to his torso. This man was later identified as 49-year-old Herbert 'Buster' Perkinson of Emerson, a Black male known for his humor and generous nature. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators soon determined that Perkinson's death was the final act of a violent home invasion and kidnapping. Earlier that morning, two men had abducted Perkinson from his home on 11th Street in Emerson. It is believed that Perkinson was targeted in what authorities suspect was a robbery attempt. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation took the lead in the homicide investigation, working in conjunction with the Emerson Police Department and the Cherokee Sheriff's Office.
In an effort to generate leads, the GBI released composite sketches of two men believed to be responsible for Perkinson's death. Despite their efforts, the case remains unsolved, and no arrests have been made. Authorities have indicated that they believe Perkinson knew his assailants and that the incident was not a random act of violence. His family continues to seek justice, remembering him as a father of two and a beloved brother among eight siblings. The GBI continues to ask for the public's help in bringing those responsible for the death of Herbert 'Buster' Perkinson to justice.
