Atlanta news, Georgia news, Breaking news from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

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Officials identify 16-year-old girl killed in Piedmont Park shooting

15-year-old also injured when gunfire erupted after daylong celebrations at Midtown park.

To end shutdown, House leaders need hawks like Rep. Clyde on board

Republicans plan to use a process known as reconciliation to end the partial government shutdown, but U.S. Rep. Andrew Clyde and others want their priorities handled first.

GRIDLOCK GUY

Tiger Woods’ excuse for DUI charge shows flaw in our driving-sins hierarchy

Golfer Tiger Woods said he was looking at his phone and changing the radio station before a crash last week in Florida, according to law enforcement.

Georgia lawmakers leave data center tax breaks intact, punt on energy costs

Consumer advocates and environmentalists had pushed the General Assembly to protect regular Georgians from the growth of data centers.

Focus on Fani Willis

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Go pound sand? Eroding federal beach repair funds worry Georgia vacation mecca.

Georgia's Tybee Island has lost more than half its sand since its last beach renourishment. Cutbacks in federal funding mean it could get much worse, putting locals on edge.

What’s 100 years old and ‘best’ it’s ever been? Savannah Bananas’ ballpark.

Savannah's Grayson Stadium marks its centennial this year. The ballpark has hosted baseball greats, a president, legendary musicians and now a sports sensation, the Bananas.

Tariff uncertainty throttles trade, but not expansion, at Georgia’s ports

Georgia's ports are adding infrastructure, including 60 acres of new storage space at Savannah terminal, even as tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty stunt trade.

WATCH

Can oysters save a sinking island off Georgia's coast?

Sapelo Island’s Hogg Hummock, a town of Gullah Geechee descendants, is fighting for survival as sea levels rise. Credits: AJC | Save Our Legacy (SOLO) / YouTube

Georgia and Metro News

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‘Students need to feel they belong,’ says Gwinnett’s next superintendent

Alexandra Estrella shared her plans to engage the community when she takes over the state’s largest school district July 1.

Crisis is brewing over how the state will conduct midterm elections

Lawmakers adjourned without a plan to replace the state’s touchscreen voting system and face a July deadline to do something about it.

Georgia State University eliminates gender studies major

The move leaves the University of Georgia with the only women’s and gender studies degree among the state’s public colleges and universities.

Stone Mountain Park switches operators, affecting nearly 500 jobs

Every employee at one of Georgia’s most-visited attractions faces a shift amid a switch in operators.

AJC Sports

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EAGLES

Comeback by Emory not enough in D-III championship game

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MLB

Diamondbacks walk-off Braves

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NBA

Final week of regular season to be one Hawks’ biggest tests

The fifth-place Hawks face a test in the final week — the Knicks, Cavaliers (twice) and Heat — as they look to avoid the play-in tournament for the first time in four seasons.

Credit: AP

BULLDOGS

Ayla Guzzardo named next head coach of Georgia women’s basketball

Georgia hired Ayla Guzzardo, who orchestrated the best single-season turnaround in NCAA Division I women’s basketball at McNeese State in 2025.

Credit: Vanderbilt Athletics

KEN SUGIURA

New Georgia State coach Jon Cremins’ model is exactly who you would think

New Georgia State coach Jon Cremins was influenced heavily by his uncle, Georgia Tech legend Bobby Cremins.

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MLS

Atlanta United fall 3-1 to Columbus Crew, Martino ejected

The Five Stripes cut the Crew's lead in half in the 60th minute, but the momentum was squashed a minute later with Columbus' third goal.

Credit: AP

BULLDOGS

UGA women’s basketball parts with Katie Abrahamson-Henderson

Katie Abrahamson-Henderson will no longer lead the women’s basketball program, the school announced weeks after the team appeared in the NCAA Tournament.

Today's Videos

Now Playing

Clock stops on effort for Georgia to ditch daylight saving time

Spaghetti Junction was built to fix Atlanta traffic. Why is it still a nightmare?

A Georgia facility trains ICE agents. Former instructors say standards have slipped.

Credit: Northeast Georgia Health System

What would you do if you recognized opportunities in your nursing unit?

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Northside Hospital and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution know how much nurses need some relaxation. To help, we’re...

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More than two decades into her career at Wellstar Health System, Deidre Jenkins wasn’t ready to retire — she was ready...

Pinky Cole promises to bring fresh drama for Season 17 of ‘Real Housewives’

The Slutty Vegan founder and her 'Housewives' castmate Shamea Morton talked to the AJC about the new season, which debuts Sunday night.

Credit: BRAVO

Ex-Atlanta ’Housewives’ star must go to therapy to see her kids, judge says

Kim Zolciak and her husband, former Falcons player Kroy Biermann, have been mired in divorce proceedings since 2023.

Credit: AJC file

BOOKSHELF

‘A Dynasty Interrupted’ revisits the Atlanta Braves’ decade-long slump

Plus two new books examine baseball’s intersection with race, class and politics.

UATL

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FROM UATL

Hills4ATL builds community at Piedmont Park, one hill at a time

A particularly Atlanta community continues to grow weekly on a hill in Piedmont Park. It is a gathering, a physical workout, an inspiring social event, all because of one man.

What is ‘404 Day’? And why are Atlantans talking about it?

If you’ve been on social media today, you may have noticed Atlanta sports teams or residents posting about 404 Day, showcasing their love and pride for the city.

FROM UATL

Celebrating 404 Day? Here are some events to attend in Atlanta this weekend

Here's a list of events happening around Atlanta to celebrate 404 Day, the city's unofficial holiday on April 4 that recognizes the area code and its influence on culture.

HEAT CHECK

Mike Will Made-It is behind music’s top hits. His vision remains in Atlanta.

Grammy-winning producer Mike Will Made-It is back with “R3SET,” blending generations of Atlanta sound and refocusing his vision.

Your Wellness

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HOLD THAT THOUGHT

4 spring cleaning tasks for your mental health

Spring cleaning isn't just a physical act of dusting and decluttering your home. It can also apply to refreshing our mindset.

Can a single therapy session make a difference? Experts say yes, with the right mindset

Can a single therapy session make a difference? Experts say yes, but only with the right mindset.

Lots of cavities as a kid? That may be a predictor of poor heart health.

Early tooth decay may signal a greater risk of heart disease later in life.

Start earlier to lower your cholesterol for a healthy heart

Atlanta cardiologists say ‘aggressive’ new guidance on managing lipids calls for screening as early as 30.

Latest Headlines

Food and Dining

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

Miami-based Ghee Indian Kitchen finds warm welcome in Atlanta

The restaurant is attractive and warm with a buzzing atmosphere and irresistible aromas.

RECIPE

Roast salmon stars in quick, elevated twist on trout almondine

This delicate French dish is adapted to modern family life by swapping in hearty, nutritious salmon.

RECIPE

C. Ellet’s Steakhouse Riverboat Flip brings classic style to the present

This old-school cocktail features a whole egg in the classic style of a flip, but the recipe makes a delicious beverage even without the egg.

These are the metro Atlanta restaurants we’re excited to see open in 2026

Nearly 20 new restaurants, from food hall stalls to ambitious tasting menu concepts, to put on your list to visit in 2026.

Opinion and Voices

OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Trump and his Sharpie

The AJC's award-winning editorial cartoonist gives his take on the latest news.

GET SCHOOLED

DeKalb’s school study is a starting point. We must shape what comes next.

Families, educators, students and stakeholders need to clear conversations about the needs of each school cluster.

GUEST COLUMN

DeKalb schools Student Assignment Plan will only work by rebuilding trust

DeKalb County school board members and leaders need to expand transparency and build trust with parents and the community if the Student Assignment Project is to succeed.

DAVID PLAZAS

‘Where Peachtree Meets Sweet Auburn’ still captures Atlanta’s spirit 30 years later

Former Atlanta mayors Ivan Allen Jr. and Maynard Jackson Jr. transformed the city — a journey documented in Gary Pomerantz's 1996 book "Where Peachtree Meets Sweet Auburn."

THE STEERING COLUMN

Cars can now gain new features long after you buy them

Many new cars maintain internet connections and can download software updates on their own. That allows automakers to update and add new features to cars already sold.

Mike Luckovich

Credit: Mike Luckovich

OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Trump and his Sharpie

Credit: Mike Luckovich

OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Professional redactor

Credit: Mike Luckovich

OPINION

Mike Luckovich: Terrible drivers

Latest news

Politics

Credit: Nathan Posner for the AJC

To end shutdown, House leaders need hawks like Rep. Clyde on board

The agreement to end the shutdown calls for Republicans to craft a bill funding immigration agencies using a process known as budget reconciliation.

Crisis is brewing over how the state will conduct midterm elections

The Georgia Legislature adjourns without a plan to count votes after July. Here's what could happen next.

Georgia lawmakers approve income tax cut, property tax relief

The General Assembly approved a significant income tax cut and a scaled-back proposal for property tax relief. There was no vote on overhauling the state's voting systems.

Metro Atlanta

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC

April showers pour down on Stone Mountain’s Easter service

It wasn't the normal crowd of thousands at the 80th annual Easter sunrise service Sunday morning, but hundreds under ponchos and umbrellas braved the rain to worship.

Officials identify 16-year-old girl killed in Piedmont Park shooting

The incident happened just after 9 p.m. on a day when the Midtown Atlanta park hosted a 404 Day celebration earlier that day.

Scattered storms dampen Easter Sunday services, egg hunts

Your Easter Sunday services and events may get muddy and soggy. A cold front moving into Georgia brought overnight rain, and showers are expected to linger.

Georgia

Credit: Nathan Posner for the AJC

To end shutdown, House leaders need hawks like Rep. Clyde on board

The agreement to end the shutdown calls for Republicans to craft a bill funding immigration agencies using a process known as budget reconciliation.

Georgia-based troops seen playing key role as U.S. war unfolds in Iran

Georgia, home to many key military bases like Moody Air Force Base and Fort Benning's Army Rangers, is seen playing an expanding role if ground troops are sent into Iran.

Georgia lawmakers leave data center tax breaks intact, punt on energy costs

Consumer advocates and environmentalists had pushed the General Assembly to protect regular Georgians from the growth of data centers.

Opinion

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OPINION

Readers write

GUEST COLUMN

DeKalb schools Student Assignment Plan will only work by rebuilding trust

DeKalb County school board members and leaders need to expand transparency and build trust with parents and the community if the Student Assignment Project is to succeed.

OPINION

Trump fired Pam Bondi as attorney general because she was an embarrassment

Pam Bondi embarrassed herself before Congress over her mishandling of the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. That's why President Donald Trump ousted her.

Falcons

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NFL

Which positions will Falcons focus on in 2026 NFL draft?

The Falcons' 2026 NFL draft needs include interior defensive line, wide receiver, offensive line and cornerback. Atlanta only has five picks, though, to bolster its roster.

Dirty Birds Dispatch: Digging the new duds?

We also talk about Kirk Cousins' new gig and how you can help everyone's favorite Falcon Bijan Robinson.

NFL

Former Falcons QB Kirk Cousins reportedly finds new home with AFC team

After two seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, quarterback Kirk Cousins has reportedly agreed to join the Las Vegas Raiders, according to an ESPN report.

Bulldogs

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BULLDOGS

Ayla Guzzardo named next head coach of Georgia women’s basketball

Georgia hired Ayla Guzzardo, who orchestrated the best single-season turnaround in NCAA Division I women’s basketball at McNeese State in 2025.

Trump executive order aimed at college sports’ ‘out-of-control arms race’

President Donald Trump issued an executive order aimed at bringing order and stability to collegiate athletics

BULLDOGS

UGA women’s basketball parts way with Katie Abrahamson-Henderson

Katie Abrahamson-Henderson will no longer lead the women’s basketball program, the school announced weeks after the team appeared in the NCAA Tournament.

Georgia Tech

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YELLOW JACKETS

2 Georgia Tech baseball players on Golden Spikes midseason watch list

Georgia Tech baseball fields 2 of the 45 players on the Golden Spikes midseason watch list. Vahn Lackey and Jarren Advincula both bat better than .400 for the Yellow Jackets.

YELLOW JACKETS

Georgia Tech baseball sweeps NC State with run-rule win Sunday

The Georgia Tech baseball team swept the N.C. State Wolfpack, including a run-rule victory. The Yellow Jackets offense has scored 10 or more runs 17 times this season.

YELLOW JACKETS

‘Starting to click’: How Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey transformed his hitting game

Georgia Tech junior catcher Vahn Lackey has turned from great defensive player into elite MLB prospect after tweaking his hitting form.

Hawks

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NBA

Final week of regular season to be one Hawks’ biggest tests

The fifth-place Hawks face a test in the final week — the Knicks, Cavaliers (twice) and Heat — as they look to avoid the play-in tournament for the first time in four seasons.

LATEST UPDATES

Hawks waive Caleb Houstan, add big man for depth, source says

With recent moves, including trading Trae Young, the Hawks have a new roster and are making a push for a playoff spot. Check out the latest updates.

NBA

Hawks take care of business, crush Nets by 34 points

The Atlanta Hawks pulled away in the fourth quarter to beat the Brooklyn Nets 141-107, their fourth consecutive win as they jockey for Eastern Conference seeding.

Braves

Credit: AP

MLB

Diamondbacks walk-off Braves

MLB

Martín Pérez to start Sunday’s series finale

The 35-year-old left-hander, signed to a minor-league contract in January, last pitched Tuesday in relief.

MLB

Elder’s error the difference in Braves’ loss to Diamondbacks

The Atlanta right-hander struck out eight in seven innings, but Arizona’s bullpen pitched four hitless innings to prevent a Braves rally.

United

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MLS

Atlanta United fall 3-1 to Columbus Crew, Martino ejected

The Five Stripes cut the Crew's lead in half in the 60th minute, but the momentum was squashed a minute later with Columbus' third goal.

Arthur Blank names president of soccer to oversee United, NWSL franchises

Mauricio Culebro comes to Atlanta with more than 22 years of vast experience across the soccer industry.

MLS

Atlanta United battles to scoreless draw

Five Stripes pick up a point in 0-0 finish vs. D.C. United.

High Schools

Credit: Jeff Sentell

BULLDOGS

4-star LB discusses his transfer to McEachern, gives recruiting update

Joakim Gouda, a priority Georgia football target, settles in at McEachern.

AJC VARSITY

2 Atlanta teens earn golf scholarships, but not from swinging a club

AJC VARSITY

GHSA president likes MBS championships — unless 2025 signals financial trend

GHSA president Jim Finch says one money-losing year won’t end the MBS deal, though rising costs and attendance drops are concerns.

More Sports

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EAGLES

Comeback by Emory not enough in D-III championship game

Rivers joins 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team in Hall of Fame

Candace Parker, Elena Delle Donne, Chamique Holdsclaw and the 1996 U.S.

KEN SUGIURA

New Georgia State coach Jon Cremins’ model is exactly who you would think

New Georgia State coach Jon Cremins was influenced heavily by his uncle, Georgia Tech legend Bobby Cremins.

Food & Dining

Credit: Jenni Girtman

Michelin Guide 2026 ceremony moving to Nashville; more from Atlanta’s dining scene

The Flavor of Georgia contest crowned 12 new winners, several new restaurants were announced, and even more opened this week, along with more from the Atlanta dining scene.

RECIPE

How to make the azalea cocktail: The Masters’ signature 3-ingredient drink

Try this recipe for the Masters’ original azalea cocktail — plus pineapple, sparkling and low- or no-alcohol variations — for elegant, effortless spring hosting.

Savannah welcomes acclaimed chef, new steakhouse and more coastal dining news

April 2026 food and dining happenings from the Georgia coast, including the opening of steakhouse Marbled & Fin in Savannah and the Fish to Fork culinary event.

UATL

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FROM UATL

Celebrating 404 Day? Here are some events to attend in Atlanta this week.

Here's a list of events happening around Atlanta to celebrate 404 Day, the city's unofficial holiday on April 4 that recognizes the area code and its influence on culture.

FROM UATL

How ‘ATL’ helped turn T.I. into a star and Georgia into a film destination

A talk with star T.I. and director Chris Robinson about "ATL," their breakthrough film that was celebrated with a 20th anniversary screening at the Plaza Theatre this week.

FROM UATL

New documentary reconsiders W.E.B. Du Bois and the Atlanta that shaped him

Rita Coburn’s "W.E.B. Du Bois: Rebel With a Cause" traces how the scholar’s time in the city charted his work and the course of Black intellectual history.

Things to Do

What is ‘404 Day’? And why are Atlantans talking about it?

If you’ve been on social media today, you may have noticed Atlanta sports teams or residents posting about 404 Day, showcasing their love and pride for the city.

The ultimate brunch beverage station

Feel like a guest at your own party with this hosting-first guide to the 10 essential elements of a sophisticated DIY brunch bar for your next porch party.

Registration for the 2026 Peachtree Road Race is open

Runners in Atlanta — and from around the world — can now register for the 2026 Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race.

Lifestyle

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AJC CONTRIBUTOR

Going after corporate home investors is a road paved with good intentions

Address America's housing crisis by expanding supply, easing regulatory bottlenecks and avoiding demand-side policies that push prices higher.

Feeling off days after daylight saving time? Here’s why.

The time change disrupts your sleep, heart health and mood. Find out why it happens and how to reset your internal clock for better health.

Entertainment

Credit: Hyosub Shin/AJC

Pinky Cole promises to bring fresh drama for Season 17 of ‘Real Housewives’

The Slutty Vegan founder tand her 'Housewives' castmate Shamea Morton talked to the AJC about the new season, which debuts Sunday night.

Michael Jai White anchors family drama ‘The Secret Between Us’ in AMC theaters

Longtime Atlanta theater seeks new home after 12 years in Midtown

The theater’s landlord ended its lease at Peachtree Pointe building.

Travel

Columbia, where the South drops the act

South Carolina’s capital is often overshadowed by its flashier neighbors, but Columbia offers raw grit, history and a kind of beauty that only reveals itself when you lean in.

TRAVEL

Birmingham is for lovers

Come to Birmingham expecting to learn what people were fighting against. But stay long enough to let the city embrace you. We have a weekend guide.

Revival as a way of life in Charlotte

From intimate gatherings over soul food or cockails to block parties, the city renews itself daily through the simple act of coming together.

Wellness

Credit: Broly Su / AJC

HOLD THAT THOUGHT

4 spring cleaning tasks for your mental health

Spring cleaning isn't just a physical act of dusting and decluttering your home. It can also apply to refreshing our mindset.

GUEST COLUMN

Affordable Care Act turns 16, but Georgia still hasn’t expanded Medicaid

Georgia is one of only 10 states that has not fully expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, and those states' health care outcomes are poorer than the 40 others.

Georgia weighs ban on synthetic hemp, while expanding medical cannabis

Georgia lawmakers weigh changes to hemp products and medical cannabis in the final days of the legislative session.

Special Features

Credit: Grace Dickinson

Southern Classics — Reimagined

Aging in Atlanta

AJC Pulse Magazine

Photos

Credit: Arvin Temkar/AJC

PHOTOS: Hills4ATL builds community at Piedmont Park, one hill at a time

A unique Atlanta community continues to grow weekly on a hill in Piedmont Park.

Credit: Miguel Martinez/AJC

PHOTOS: Stone Mountain Easter Sunrise Service

Stone Mountain Park’s annual Easter Sunrise Service, held on Sunday, April 5, 2026, featured two simultaneous non-denominational Easter sunrise services at the mountain’s summ...

Credit: Arvin Temkar/AJC