Massive $250,000 Reward Offered in Killing of Metro Atlanta Postal Worker

Dequavious Graves, 31, was shot and killed while on his USPS delivery route in Decatur.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The United States Postal Inspection Service is offering a $250,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect who shot and killed 31-year-old postal worker Dequavious Graves last week in Decatur, Georgia. Graves had worked for the USPS for three years and was described by friends as a model citizen, artistic genius, and great friend who loved his job.

Why it matters

The killing of a postal worker on the job is a serious federal crime, and the large reward amount indicates the urgency to find the perpetrator. Postal workers are essential public servants, and their safety is a major concern for the community and law enforcement.

The details

Graves was completing his delivery route on Oxford Drive in Decatur last Thursday evening around 7 p.m. when he was shot and killed. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service said the suspect should be considered armed and dangerous, and they are asking the public to submit any video evidence of the incident through an online portal.

  • Dequavious Graves was killed on Thursday, February 12, 2026 around 7 p.m.

The players

Dequavious Graves

A 31-year-old postal worker who had worked for the USPS for three years and was described by friends as a model citizen, artistic genius, and great friend who loved his job.

U.S. Postal Inspection Service

The law enforcement and security arm of the United States Postal Service, offering a $250,000 reward for information leading to an arrest in Graves' killing.

Shannon Graves

The mother of Dequavious Graves, who urged the alleged killer to come forward.

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What they’re saying

“This was a very cowardly move, and I want you to please come forward and give yourself up.”

— Shannon Graves, Mother of Dequavious Graves (11Alive)

What’s next

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service and DeKalb County Police are continuing to investigate the case and urge anyone with information or video evidence to come forward.

The takeaway

The killing of a postal worker on the job is a serious federal crime, and the large reward offered by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service underscores the urgency to find the perpetrator and bring justice for Dequavious Graves and his family.