Suspect in DeKalb Shooting Spree Facing Federal Charges

Second individual accused of providing the handgun also charged at federal level

Apr. 17, 2026 at 9:11pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The suspect in the recent DeKalb County shooting spree that left two dead and one critically injured, as well as the man authorities say provided him the handgun, are now both facing federal charges. U.K.-native Olaolukitan Adon Abel, 26, is accused of the attacks that rattled the Atlanta suburbs, while 35-year-old Damon Marquis Yarns has been arrested for allegedly purchasing the gun and giving it to Abel.

Why it matters

The shooting spree has shaken the DeKalb County community and raised concerns about gun violence and the ability of convicted felons to obtain firearms. The federal charges against both the suspected shooter and the alleged gun provider underscore the gravity of the crimes and the collaborative efforts of local and federal law enforcement to address the incident.

The details

According to authorities, Abel is accused of killing two women, including a Department of Homeland Security employee, and critically injuring a homeless man in a series of attacks across Decatur, Brookhaven, and Panthersville early Monday morning. Police say they were able to track the gun used in the crimes to Yarns, who allegedly purchased the 9mm pistol from a licensed dealer in Midtown Atlanta in February and then provided it to Abel.

  • The first victim, Prianna Weathers, 31, was found with gunshot wounds near a Decatur-area Checkers around 1 a.m.
  • Around 2 a.m., a 49-year-old homeless man was shot multiple times while sleeping outside a Brookhaven Kroger.
  • DHS worker Lauren Bullis, 49, was found around 7 a.m. in Panthersville with gunshot and stab wounds and died at the scene.

The players

Olaolukitan Adon Abel

A 26-year-old U.K. native who was granted U.S. citizenship in 2022 and is accused of carrying out the shooting spree that left two dead and one critically injured.

Damon Marquis Yarns

A 35-year-old man who authorities say purchased the handgun used in the attacks and then provided it to Abel.

Lauren Bullis

A 49-year-old Department of Homeland Security employee who was killed in the shooting spree while walking her dog.

Prianna Weathers

A 31-year-old woman who was the first victim, found with gunshot wounds near a Decatur-area Checkers.

Gregory Padrick

The DeKalb County Police Chief.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The defendants allegedly violated federal law to put a firearm in the hands of a convicted felon with tragic consequences.”

— Theodore S. Hertzberg, U.S. Attorney

“This was an act of pure evil.”

— Markwayne Mullin, Department of Homeland Security Secretary

What’s next

Authorities say they will continue to provide support to the DeKalb County District Attorney's Office as it investigates the shootings and prepares to prosecute the suspects.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for stronger gun control measures and better monitoring of convicted felons to prevent them from obtaining firearms and committing further acts of violence. The federal charges against both the shooter and the gun provider underscore the gravity of the crimes and the collaborative efforts of law enforcement to address such cases.