Local Kappa Alpha Psi Member Mourned After Coan Park Shooting

A community is in mourning after a shooting at Coan Park during a fraternity picnic left two people dead and two others injured. The incident, which occurred Saturday evening, has left families grieving and authorities investigating.

As reported by Fox 5, the violence erupted when an uninvited guest, identified as 23-year-old Justin Minitee, arrived at the event, hosted by local members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. According to police, a confrontation ensued, escalating into gunfire. Minitee, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds, was transported to Grady Memorial Hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.

Among the victims was 33-year-old Anthony Pearson, who tragically lost his life at the scene. Pearson, described as a devoted son, brother, and father, was not involved in the altercation that sparked the shooting. His sister shared heartfelt memories of him, saying, “He was going to make you feel like family. Everybody was family to him. His aura is unmatched, it’s always going to be unmatched.”

Pearson had stepped into a leadership role within his family following the death of their father. “When our dad passed, Anthony stepped up. He was the one,” his sister added. “That’s why I call him my little big brother—because let him tell it, he’s the oldest and we have to listen to him.”

The picnic, meant to celebrate fraternity brotherhood, turned into a scene of chaos and heartbreak. “It just was brotherhood—it was another extension of his family,” Pearson’s sister reflected.

Two other individuals were injured in the shooting but are expected to recover. Authorities have not released further details about their identities or conditions.

Pearson was a 2012 initiate of the Gamma Chi chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi, chartered at Savannah State University. In a statement posted on Instagram, the chapter mourned the loss of their fallen brother:

The Gamma Chi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and its Spring 2012 Initiates mourn the tragic passing of Brother Anthony Lewis Pearson.

Anthony, affectionately known as “AP,” was a beloved father, son, brother, family member and friend. He will be remembered for an energy and light that charged the hearts and spirits of all who encountered him.

As his brothers, we will continue to keep his memory alive throughout our chapter and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

In lieu of flowers, the chapter is requesting mourners to consider donating to the Anthony Pearson Legacy Fund, with the proceeds supporting his young daughter, Avery.

The Atlanta Police Department continues to investigate the incident and urges anyone with information to come forward.