ATLANTA — A Georgia Tech student was fatally shot at an off-campus apartment complex in a brazen attack carried out by a fellow student, according to police reports. Nigel Belser, 21, is charged with murder in the death of 22-year-old Akash Banerjee, who was known for his academic pursuits at Georgia Tech. Belser, who is also a student at Morehouse College, surrendered to authorities on Sunday and is currently incarcerated in the Fulton County Jail.
The incident occurred on May 18 at The Connector Apartments along Spring Street in Midtown. Investigators assert that Belser gained access to the building by closely following residents through the parking garage, exploiting the key fob security system. Surveillance footage captures him entering the premises while carrying a light blue Gatorade bottle.
Once inside, Belser proceeded to the second floor and then ascended to the ninth floor via the stairwell, where he waited for over an hour. During this time, he reportedly donned a black mask and moved stealthily between the stairwell and the hallway outside Banerjee’s apartment.
Witnesses observed Banerjee briefly departing his apartment to visit a nearby gas station. Upon returning, the victim seemingly sensed something amiss, prompting him to approach the stairwell door. According to police accounts, this unexpected encounter led to a confrontation in which Banerjee attempted to defend himself before being shot by Belser.
After the fatal encounter, Belser fled the scene through the parking garage, leaving behind the Gatorade bottle identified at the crime site. This item serves as potential evidence in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have not disclosed the motive behind the shooting and have yet to determine if the two students were acquainted before the incident.
Belser faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault and firearm possession during a felony. His defense attorney, Keith Adams, noted that this is Belser’s first legal trouble, and he emphasized his client’s close family ties and community connections.
As the situation unfolds, residents of The Connector Apartments are left questioning their safety. Local management has been approached for comments regarding any new security measures that might be implemented following the shooting. The case continues to develop as investigators seek to piece together the events leading to this tragic incident.