ATLANTA — A shooting left a Clark Atlanta University student dead Tuesday outside the Lyke House Catholic Center at the Atlanta University Center.
Atlanta Police Department investigators said a 20-year-old man was shot and killed at the center's parking lot at 809 Beckwith St. shortly after 1:30 p.m. When officers arrived, APD Homicide Commander Germaine Dearlove said they found him with several gunshot wounds.
"He was pronounced deceased on scene," Dearlove said. "Homicide investigators responded out and we are currently conducting a preliminary investigation."
The Fulton County Medical Examiner later identified the 20-year-old killed as Jatonne Sterling.
Dearlove said the shooting appears to have been targeted, which investigators believe may have stemmed from an escalated dispute between Sterling and an acquaintance.
"We're canvassing right now for witnesses," Dearlove added. "We'll be able to provide additional details as the case continues."
11Alive SkyTracker flew over the area which showed officers on site concentrated in the center's parking lot. At this time, Dearlove said the shooting does not appear to be connected in any way to the center and he added he doesn't believe there's cause for community concern due to the "targeted" nature of the shooting.
Following the shooting, Clark Atlanta University issued a statement saying Sterling was shot and killed off campus. He was a sophomore from Chicago and a member of the baseball team, the university said.
"Our condolences go out to his family and friends," CAU said in a statement in part.
APD said their investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 404-577-TIPS(8477). You can also submit an anonymous tip online.
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