DeKalb, Georgia — A balloon release at Memorial Park drew a crowd of friends and family last week to honor Linton Blackwell, a talented rapper and entrepreneur, who was killed in a shooting involving an off-duty Atlanta police officer. Attendees remembered Blackwell, 44, as a devoted father to his twin daughters and a vital member of his community.
“He’s an angel gone too soon, but he will watch over us,” said Faith Harper, Blackwell’s aunt, during Thursday’s tribute. The family is grappling with the sudden loss, as they believe the circumstances surrounding his death on October 11 raise significant questions.
Those close to Blackwell described him as a man who would give everything for his family. His cousin Jimmy Evans, who worked as Blackwell’s security while he performed under the name B Green, stated that Blackwell was shot multiple times. The family is still waiting on the autopsy report as investigations continue.
According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the shooting occurred when the off-duty officer responded to an altercation at a nearby bar. The preliminary report indicates that the officer spotted Blackwell retrieving what appeared to be a firearm from his vehicle before he tried to enter the bar. Despite verbal warnings from the officer, Blackwell was shot.
Authorities later discovered a handgun at the scene but did not clarify to whom it belonged. While the officer’s identity has not been fully disclosed, the incident report labels him as Officer G. Walker.
Blackwell was pronounced dead on the scene, leaving his family devastated. “He was very respectful and kind,” said Faith Harper, emphasizing the love he had for his daughters. “He always looked out for us.”
In addition to his musical career, Blackwell operated a clothing line called Lil Vietnam, reflecting his roots in East Lake Meadows, a former public housing project in Atlanta. The area was demolished in the late 1990s, with many original residents not returning when new mixed-income developments were created.
Marcus Harper, another cousin, described Blackwell as a cherished artist who was deeply connected to his neighborhood. “He kept our neighborhood relevant through his music,” said Jimmy Evans, echoing the sentiments of a family still in shock.
Another cousin, Jimmy Hill, is familiar with the impact of police violence, having previously sought justice for the death of his son, Jimmy Atchison, who was also shot by police. “This has devastated our family,” Hill said, expressing the uncertainty surrounding Blackwell’s case. “They never indicated that he aimed a weapon at the officer.”
With limited details from law enforcement about the events leading to the shooting, the family is left with many unanswered questions. “He was the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back,” said Grady Blackwell, Linton’s uncle, highlighting his nephew’s generosity and spirit. “I loved him like he was my own child.”
As the community mourns Blackwell’s passing, they reflect on the legacy he leaves behind and the love he shared with those around him.