Atlanta authorities are actively searching for two individuals connected to a shooting aboard a MARTA train near Buckhead Station on the morning of July 26. The victim, identified as Isaiah Tovar, was struck by a bullet but survived, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.
According to investigators, the incident occurred shortly before the train arrived at Buckhead Station on the southbound track. MARTA police described the situation as a violent altercation inside one of the train cars. Emergency personnel promptly transported Tovar to a nearby hospital, where he received treatment and was later reported to be in stable condition. Although his injuries were not life-threatening, the shooting caused panic among passengers and temporarily disrupted service on one of Atlanta’s busiest transit routes.
Southbound trains were halted while police and crime scene teams secured the area, collected evidence, and interviewed witnesses. Many passengers recounted scenes of fear as gunfire erupted onboard. “It’s terrifying to think something like this can happen in the middle of the day on public transportation,” one rider told local media. Northbound trains continued running to minimize overall delays.
Authorities have released surveillance images of two suspects believed to be involved in the shooting. Both individuals reportedly boarded the train at West End Station. The first suspect, a man, was last seen wearing a black shirt with “RAW” printed on the front, stone-wash jeans, and slide sandals. The second suspect, a woman, wore a black jacket, black pants, and dark-colored slides. Police have warned the public that both suspects should be considered armed and dangerous and have urged anyone who recognizes them to contact authorities rather than approach them.
Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta has announced a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to the arrest and indictment of the suspects. Members of the public can provide anonymous information by calling (404) 577-8477 or texting CSGA to 738477.
Police have suggested that Tovar may have been the initial aggressor in the altercation that escalated to gunfire, though they emphasize that the investigation remains open. Authorities continue to examine the motive behind the incident and whether the suspects had prior contact with Tovar.
The July 26 shooting has reignited concerns about safety on Atlanta’s transit system, which has faced several violent incidents in recent years. City leaders and MARTA officials have pledged to enhance security measures, including increased patrols, improved surveillance, and community outreach initiatives aimed at reducing crime on trains and in stations.
For now, the priority remains locating the suspects and ensuring justice for Isaiah Tovar. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspects’ whereabouts to come forward, stressing that public cooperation is critical to preventing further violence.