DeKalb County police have identified the squatter who was fatally shot at a house on South Ponce de Leon Avenue on Monday.

James Thornton, 40, died after being shot in the , according to police.

The homeowner's relative, 39-year-old , is charged with murder in the shooting, DeKalb County police told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He was booked into the DeKalb County Jail.

Channel 2 Action News reported Medina was sent to the residence to check on it while the homeowner was out of town. After encountering Thornton, Medina allegedly shot and killed him, according to the station.

Neighbors told Channel 2 the vacant house was a target for squatters in the past.

About the Author

Featured

The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC