Valet Killed Stopping Car Break-In in Buckhead: Murder Trial Goes to Jury

The family of a valet gunned down while trying to stop a car break-in in Buckhead must wait at least 24 hours more to learn the fate of the man accused of his murder.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The jury must consider a day and a half of testimony to determine whether Randy King is guilty of shooting and killing 25-year-old Harrison Olvey, a Kennesaw State University graduate who was working as a valet during Labor Day weekend 2023 when he caught King breaking into a truck outside Tongue and Groove nightclub in Buckhead. Prosecutors showed video they said shows the moment Olvey confronted King, who then sped away down Piedmont Road. The medical examiner testified Olvey died from a gunshot wound to the chest, ruled a homicide.

Why it matters

This case highlights the risks faced by service workers trying to protect property and the public, as well as the challenges of prosecuting violent crimes with limited evidence. It also raises questions about security measures and deterrents for car break-ins in busy nightlife districts.

The details

Prosecutors say Olvey confronted King, who is then seen speeding away down Piedmont Road. The medical examiner testified Olvey died from a gunshot wound to the chest, ruled a homicide. Jurors watched dash camera video, and Atlanta Police Sgt. Al Hogan, the lead detective, testified that King acted alone and fired the fatal shot. But the defense argued that Olvey reported seeing 'two Black dudes' and that King was present but did not fire the shot.

  • The incident occurred during Labor Day weekend 2023.
  • The murder trial is currently underway.

The players

Harrison Olvey

A 25-year-old Kennesaw State University graduate who was working as a valet when he was killed while trying to stop a car break-in.

Randy King

The man accused of shooting and killing Harrison Olvey.

Atlanta Police Sgt. Al Hogan

The lead detective on the case who testified that King acted alone and fired the fatal shot.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The jury will continue deliberating whether to find Randy King guilty of the murder of Harrison Olvey.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the risks faced by service workers trying to protect property, as well as the challenges of prosecuting violent crimes with limited evidence. It raises important questions about security measures and deterrents for car break-ins in busy nightlife districts.