Dentist, 73, charged with murder in Atlanta shooting

Authorities say the shooting happened outside a closed dentist's office where the suspect's license had expired.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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A 73-year-old dentist named David Mays has been arrested and charged with murder after a shooting death at a closed dentist's office in southwest Atlanta over the weekend. Police say the shooting happened outside the office where Mays' dental license was issued, though his license has since expired according to state records.

Why it matters

This incident raises questions about the mental health and potential desperation of older professionals who may be struggling with the loss of their livelihoods and licenses. It also highlights the need for better support systems and resources for aging small business owners and healthcare providers.

The details

According to authorities, the shooting occurred on Saturday afternoon outside the closed dentist's office in the 3400 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in southwest Atlanta. Police arrested David Mays, 73, and charged him with murder in connection to the incident.

  • The shooting happened on Saturday afternoon.

The players

David Mays

A 73-year-old dentist who was arrested and charged with murder in connection to the shooting death at his closed dentist's office.

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What’s next

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the victim or provided details on a potential motive for the shooting. The case is still under investigation.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the challenges that aging small business owners and healthcare providers can face when they lose their livelihoods, and the importance of having strong support systems in place to help prevent such devastating outcomes.