Union City, Georgia—A quiet Tuesday afternoon shattered into fear and chaos when an armed assailant opened fire within Building 4 at the 4217 Flat Shoals Road apartment complex. Surveillance footage, later shared by police, captured a lone suspect fleeing the scene. The firearm he carried was unmistakable, and Union City authorities have issued a stern warning: this individual is armed, dangerous, and must not be approached.
The shooting occurred mid‑afternoon in broad daylight. The gunfire rang out inside one apartment and echoed into the hallway below. When Union City Police Department (UCPD) officers arrived, they found two victims: one inside the targeted apartment and another collapsed outside in the common area. Both individuals had sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to local trauma centers. As of now, their identities and conditions remain undisclosed while investigators work to locate the suspect and determine what triggered the attack.
This event strikes at the heart of Union City’s residential areas. Located just south of Atlanta, the Flat Shoals Road corridor is a dense urban neighborhood featuring multi-unit housing, small businesses, schools, and gathering spots for families. A shooting there at any hour sends shockwaves through the community, but an afternoon attack adds a painful sense of vulnerability. Who could have expected a sunny Tuesday to become a scene of gun violence?
Police have released a grainy image from apartment security cameras: a lone male, mid-height, wearing dark clothes—and holding what appears to be a long-barrel handgun as he flees. The image shows him jogging away from Building 4, urgency in every stride. He is described simply as “a male suspect wearing dark clothing.” No additional details about race, height, or distinguishing features have been released.
UCPD is asking for the public’s help. “If you recognize this individual or have any information about the incident, please contact us,” a police spokesperson said. Tips can be submitted confidentially through Union City Police at (770) 306-6849. Residents are cautioned to avoid contact with the suspect due to his presumed danger; instead, call 911 immediately if they see someone matching the description.
Investigators are canvassing the area, gathering evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing residents. Authorities are checking local pawn shop records and nearby traffic cameras for sightings of the suspect exiting the area. Detectives are also conducting door-to-door interviews with residents of Building 4 and nearby units to piece together what sparked the shooting—and to confirm whether the suspect and victims were known to each other or if this was targeted or random.
For local residents, the surveillance image and updates from police evoke strong emotions. One resident near the scene, who asked not to be named, described hearing gunshots and seeing neighbors rushing out in shock. “We always feel safe here. The kids were playing just hours ago. Now, they’re hiding inside.” Others are expressing anger and hurt that their homes, reminders of peace and community, could become scenes of violence. Parents say they’ll now be stricter about allowing children to play outside or walk alone.
Community leaders, too, are responding swiftly. Council members and representatives from the Union City Police Department have scheduled a safety meeting at the complex for later this week—open to all tenants. They will discuss extra patrols and camera installations and invite residents to share concerns and suggestions. UCPD is also reinforcing its awareness campaign about emergency reporting tools like 911, Crime Stoppers, and neighborhood watch apps.
Meanwhile, detectives continue their investigation. They are working urgently to track leads, including possible sightings on Flat Shoals or adjacent roadways, and phone tips from residents who say they recognize the suspect’s gait, voice, or clothing from the surveillance video—every small detail could be vital.
Authorities also feel pressure to reassure the public. A shooting in residential areas often triggers concerns about rising crime, gun violence, and policing. Union City officials emphasize that this appears to be a targeted incident, not a random rampage, but they acknowledge the broader anxiety it creates. In response, UCPD plans to increase foot patrols around residential complexes near Flat Shoals Road area and establish a visible law enforcement presence.
The community is doing what it can to support both the investigation and the victims. Local charities and churches are planning plans to offer emotional support to those affected. A GoFundMe page has appeared offering funds to help the injured victims and their families with immediate needs. Meanwhile, HOA representatives around Building 4 are coordinating to install emergency call buttons and upgrade building access codes.
Looking at the incident from a broader perspective, Union City has experienced similar episodes of gun violence in recent years—not all are mass casualty events, but each has left residents uncertain about their own safety. While overall crime rates have remained near or below state averages, incidents like this one raise tough questions about social stressors, community resources, and intervention strategies.
Police officials say the case will move fast, but will take care to ensure accuracy in identifying and charging the subject. The suspect is currently listed as armed and dangerous, though charges cannot yet be filed until detectives apprehend him and confirm the weapon and circumstances. The public is asked to remain vigilant yet calm and not to be discouraged from their routines.
The next few days may bring the suspect into custody—or the release of another surveillance image or video clip if he is picked on foot or by vehicle. If the shooting was targeted, authorities may soon share motive or connections between suspect and victims. If random, they may ask a national broadcast for help through APB alerts and broadcast footage.
For now, the narrative remains painful and unresolved—two wounded individuals whose lives hang in the balance, a frightened community seeking answers, and a suspect still evading capture. But Union City is also showing unity, with police and civic leaders working side by side with residents, families, and community members.
If you know anything—even something that seems insignificant—please call (770) 306‑6849 today. Your tip could be what solves this case. In the meantime, remain safe, aware, and compassionate. Together, Union City can recover from this tragic afternoon—and can stand stronger next time.
The post Union City, GA Double Shooting: Armed-and-Dangerous Suspect on the Run After Apartment Complex Attack first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
