ATLANTA — A 21-year-old man has been charged with fatally shooting a Georgia Tech student after allegedly hiding in a stairwell for over an hour before confronting his victim. The suspect, identified as Nigel Belser, surrendered to authorities on Sunday and is now being held in the Fulton County Jail on multiple charges, including murder.
Belser is accused of killing 22-year-old Akash Banerjee, a student at Georgia Tech. High-profile attorney Keith Adams, who has previously represented notable individuals in high-stakes cases, is now defending Belser and claims his client is the true victim in this situation. Adams emphasized that Belser has no prior criminal record and enjoys strong community ties and family support.
Details from an arrest affidavit reveal a chilling sequence of events on May 18 at The Connector Apartments in Midtown. Surveillance footage showed Belser entering the building using a parking garage, tailing behind two residents before gaining access. Once inside, he proceeded to follow them onto the elevator and move to the second floor.
Investigators noted that Belser donned a black face mask and waited outside Banerjee’s apartment for approximately 75 minutes, pacing between the stairwell and the victim’s door. During this unsettling wait, Banerjee left his apartment briefly to purchase items from a nearby gas station.
Upon returning home, Banerjee encountered Belser, who allegedly startled him as he emerged from hiding. Police reports indicate that the victim attempted to defend himself but was shot in the confrontation. Following the incident, Belser fled the scene through the garage.
When forensic investigators examined the crime scene, they discovered a light blue Gatorade bottle that Belser was seen carrying earlier. Authorities have also confirmed that the suspect resides nearby, at the University House on Spring Street.
In addition to murder, Belser faces charges of aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. As investigators continue to piece together the motive behind the shooting, it remains uncertain whether Belser and Banerjee were previously acquainted.
Law enforcement has yet to provide a clear motive for this tragic incident, prompting questions regarding the safety protocols in place at The Connector Apartments. Management has been contacted for information on any potential changes to security measures following this alarming episode.