The crime stunned this rural community in northwest Georgia: The Polk County sheriff gunned down responding to a burglary call.

More than four decades later, no one has ever been convicted in the killing of Frank Lott.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution explains why no one was ever punished in the case and how mistakes early on may have allowed the killer to walk free.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com