Unarmed man begged for life before Sandy Springs shooting

Two brothers face murder charges after a parking lot shooting that investigators say escalated from a confrontation.

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — A 29-year-old man was shot and killed during a confrontation at a Sandy Springs apartment complex parking lot, according to arrest warrants that describe the victim as unarmed and pleading for his life.

Authorities say the shooting, which occurred at the Northridge Apartments off Roswell Road, has led to the arrest of two brothers now facing murder and related charges. Investigators allege the encounter escalated quickly, ending in gunfire that has raised questions about claims of self-defense.

Police identified the victim as Lamont Tucker, who was killed during an altercation with Derrick Washington and his brother, Mason Washington. Derrick Washington, 26, was arrested first, followed by Mason Washington, who was taken into custody later. Both men are charged with murder and aggravated assault. According to investigators, the shooting took place in the apartment complex parking lot during what began as a dispute.

Arrest warrants indicate Derrick Washington told officers he fired his weapon because he believed Tucker was armed and posed a threat. However, investigators say Tucker did not have a gun. Witnesses told police they saw Tucker with his hands raised, pleading for his life before shots were fired. Authorities say those accounts contradict the suspect’s claim of self-defense.

Police said the confrontation unfolded quickly, with evidence suggesting Tucker was attempting to disengage. Investigators continue to review witness statements and physical evidence collected from the scene, including firearms recovered during the investigation. The warrants describe a chaotic moment in which multiple people were present and observed parts of the encounter.

The shooting has drawn attention to how self-defense claims are evaluated under Georgia law, particularly in situations involving conflicting witness accounts. Investigators must determine whether the use of deadly force was justified or if the circumstances support criminal charges. In this case, police say the evidence gathered so far points toward an unjustified shooting.

Both suspects were booked into the Fulton County Jail, where they face multiple felony charges. Court records show they are being held as the case moves forward. Prosecutors are expected to review the evidence, including witness testimony and forensic findings, before determining how to proceed.

Residents at the apartment complex told investigators they were shaken by the violence, describing a normally quiet area disrupted by gunfire. Some said they heard shouting before the shots rang out, while others arrived after the incident and saw emergency responders on scene.

The investigation remains active as authorities continue to piece together the timeline of events and verify statements from those involved.

Officials said additional details could be released as the case progresses, including potential court dates and further findings from forensic analysis.

Author note: Last updated April 16, 2026.