Atlanta police arrest man after fatal Beltline stabbing

A 29-year-old man was killed following a stabbing near the Atlanta Beltline on Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred at 725 Ponce de Leon Avenue after what police described as a verbal argument that escalated into violence.

Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum confirmed that authorities have taken 54-year-old Jonathan Hamby into custody. Hamby, a convicted felon with an extensive criminal history including 30 previous arrests, was reportedly on active probation for an aggravated assault at the time of the incident.

This killing follows a series of violent incidents along the popular walking and biking trail. Recent crimes in the area include an armed robbery in April 2025 and a fatal stabbing of a woman in May 2026. In response to rising safety concerns, Atlanta officials are utilizing police patrols, expanded ambassador programs, and upgraded security cameras and lighting to secure the public space.