44-Year Old Man Dead in Shooting at The Cobblestone Apartments
On January 30, 2025, police officers from the Cobb County Police Department responded to the Cobblestone Apartments after receiving reports of a person shot. Upon arrival, officers found a victim, Dequelle Williamson, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
The 44-year-old was rushed to a local hospital but died shortly after arrival due to his injuries. Investigators have brought a suspect into custody, who is currently facing charges of malice murder and aggravated assault. At this time, however, law enforcement has not identified what led up to the deadly shooting.
The apartment complex, Cobblestone Apartments, may now face legal consequences for negligence under Georgia’s negligent security laws.
Understanding Georgia’s Negligent Security Law
In Georgia, property owners have a legal responsibility to take reasonable measures to protect tenants, visitors, and guests from foreseeable criminal activity. This responsibility is even more important in locations with a known history of crime, where additional precautions may be necessary to ensure safety.
When property owners fail to take necessary security measures–such as repairing broken gates, maintaining adequate lighting, or providing trained security personnel–they may be held accountable under Georgia’s negligent security laws. If their inaction creates an environment where violent crime can occur, they can be found legally responsible for the harm suffered by victims.
By prioritizing safety and taking proactive steps–such as installing security cameras, reinforcing access points, and implementing emergency response protocols–property owners can deter criminal activity and create a safer environment for all. Neglecting these responsibilities, however, not only puts lives at risk, but also exposes property owners to significant legal consequences.
Known History of Criminal Activity and Negative Reviews
Information found in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reveals a combined total of 66 reported crimes between the 347 and 330 addresses of the Cobblestone Apartments from 2017 to 2023. These reports included cases of aggravated assaults and robberies.
Online reviews reveal a consensus among residents that the new manager is unprofessional and disrespectful, with one resident stating: “the new property manager is extremely unprofessional and lacks compassion for the resident.” Another resident claims that their experience with management has “been the worst of my life.”
Reviews also reveal complaints of roach/rat infestations and a property which is “poorly maintained.” Residents warn others “not to rent here under any circumstances.”
Only Victims and Their Families Can Demand Justice
When violent crimes occur due to inadequate security, victims and their families are often left to pick up the pieces alone. Law enforcement may investigate and pursue criminal charges, but they cannot hold property owners accountable for failing to provide a safe environment. That responsibility falls to the victims and their families, who can take legal action to seek justice.
Filing a negligent security lawsuit allows victims to demand accountability from property owners who failed in their duty of care to provide a reasonable safe complex. While no amount of compensation can erase the trauma of such an event, a successful claim can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial burdens caused by the crime. More importantly, it sends a clear message to property owners that neglecting safety will not be tolerated.
Beyond just individual cases, legal action serves a greater purpose–it pushes property owners to take security seriously. The threat of legal and financial consequences encourages them to invest in better lighting, secured entrances, security patrols, and other protective measures that can deter future criminal activity. By standing up for their rights, victims not only seek justice for themselves but also contribute to a safer community for others.
Together we can Make Georgia Safe, one community at a time.