Cobb police identify South Cobb Drive double homicide victims

A suspect, accused of fatally shooting two individuals in Cobb County, tragically took his own life Thursday afternoon as officers were in pursuit, according to law enforcement.

This incident followed the initial crime scene that involved a double shooting at 4833 South Cobb Drive at approximately 4:40 p.m. Police preliminary findings indicated that a lone suspect approached the establishment, which was adjacent to a townhome community on Oakdale Road.

The suspect shot and killed Shawna Leonard, aged 54, and Joshua Payton, aged 27, before fleeing the scene in a vehicle. 

Subsequently, the suspect’s vehicle was located through Flock cameras near the intersection of East-West Connector and Powder Springs Road. As officers attempted to intercept the vehicle, which was heading towards Macland Road on Barrett Parkway, the suspect chose to end their own life before an arrest could be made.

The investigation is ongoing. Police are urging anyone with information related to this incident to contact their Tip Hotline at 770-499-4111.