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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People carrying a giant pride flag participate in the annual Pride Parade in Atlanta on Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

Credit: Miguel Martinez-Jimenez