Family of teen killed by Newnan police to make announcement

The image of a young man running, captured on surveillance video just moments before his life ended, is haunting the community of Newnan and sparking difficult questions about accountability and justice. Eighteen-year-old Zadarious Dorsey tragically lost his life after being shot by a Newnan police officer, an event that has deeply impacted his family and ignited protests throughout the city. On Friday, attorneys representing Dorsey’s family are scheduled to make a significant announcement regarding the case, promising to shed new light on the circumstances surrounding his death and demanding answers from law enforcement – a moment many in our community are anxiously awaiting.

What Happened

The incident unfolded early morning, October 3, 2025, at approximately 1:11 a.m. on Cliff Circle in Newnan. According to reports gathered from official statements and investigative findings, an officer in an unmarked vehicle pulled alongside a parked car carrying Zadarious Dorsey and several passengers. The officer, visibly displaying a badge and a “POLICE” vest, ordered Dorsey to stop and addressed him by the nickname “Dae Dae.” Within minutes, at 1:13 a.m., the officer fired a fatal shot as Dorsey ran, while other passengers walked away freely and the car was driven off. The officer later told investigators that Dorsey allegedly drew a firearm from his waistband and disregarded verbal commands to drop it before the shot was fired. Footage from surveillance cameras captured the entire two-minute encounter, providing a stark visual record of the tragic events.

Adding further complexity to the situation, state forensic tests completed October 15th confirmed that Zadarious Dorsey’s DNA was found on a Canik 9mm pistol—a stolen handgun with an extended magazine and one chambered bullet—discovered 42 feet diagonally ahead of his body. This discovery has become a central point of contention, with attorneys representing Dorsey’s family arguing it proves he discarded the weapon while fleeing and was unarmed when shot. The officer involved, whose name has not been publicly released, reportedly recognized Dorsey from previous encounters including an incident at Newnan High School in August 2023 and two past gun arrests. Dorsey was also under bond conditions prohibiting him from possessing weapons stemming from arrests in Coweta County on October 10, 2025, and Carroll County on February 16. Coweta County Government officials are facing increased scrutiny as the community seeks transparency and accountability.

Coweta County District Attorney Herb Cranford has confirmed that the criminal review will focus solely on whether the Newnan police officer reasonably believed deadly force was necessary to protect his life, emphasizing that Georgia self-defense statutes render the issue of reasonable suspicion legally irrelevant to justified force. He shared these findings in closed-door briefings with Dorsey’s family attorneys, local clergy, Newnan Mayor James Shepherd, and Coweta County Commissioner Al Smith. The District Attorney's office will evaluate whether evidence proves beyond a reasonable doubt that a crime occurred before any further action is taken. The City of Newnan faces a challenging path forward as it navigates the complexities of this case and addresses community concerns.

Community Reaction

News of Zadarious Dorsey’s death has understandably ignited strong emotions within the Newnan community. Demonstrators gathered outside the Newnan Police Department, voicing their outrage and demanding justice for the teen. The family of Zadarious Dorsey has consistently called for accountability, questioning why an officer targeted him when he was not involved in a traffic stop or suspected of an active crime. The legal team representing the Dorsey family, led by prominent civil rights attorneys Ben Crump, Harry Daniels, and Gerald Griggs, has been vocal in their criticism of the officer’s actions and their belief that Dorsey was unarmed when shot. They are planning a news conference at Roscoe Jenkins Funeral Home on Friday to announce a major legal update related to the case.

The emotional toll extends beyond Dorsey’s immediate family and friends. Many residents express deep concern about the use of force by law enforcement and the need for increased transparency and accountability within the police department. While Mayor James Shepherd and Commissioner Al Smith were present at briefings with District Attorney Cranford, their response to the community's concerns has been met with mixed reactions. The event has underscored the vital importance of fostering trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve—a challenge that requires open communication, sensitivity, and a commitment to upholding justice for all.

Beyond the legal proceedings, this tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact that loss can have on families and communities. The need for strong families, committed marriages, and faith-based support systems is amplified in times like these, offering solace and strength to those grappling with grief and uncertainty. The American dream of safety and security within our own neighborhoods seems threatened when such events occur, reinforcing the importance of rebuilding trust and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

Details Remain Unclear

Despite the ongoing investigations and public statements, several crucial details surrounding the shooting remain unclear. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has yet to release the final medical examiner autopsy report detailing Dorsey’s specific wounds. Authorities have also not publicly confirmed whether Dorsey threw the weapon while running or if he still held it when the officer fired. The identity of the Newnan police officer involved in the shooting has not been disclosed, nor has it been confirmed whether that officer remains on administrative leave.

The case has raised significant questions about the use of force by law enforcement and the role of self-defense statutes in such situations. The community is closely watching the developments to see how this tragedy unfolds and what steps will be taken to ensure accountability. Fox 5 Atlanta reports on the DA's perspective.

What's Next

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is currently conducting an independent investigation into the shooting, which will be crucial in piecing together a complete picture of what transpired. District Attorney Cranford has stated that his office will evaluate whether the evidence proves beyond a reasonable doubt that a crime occurred. Cranford noted that police body camera footage will be released to the public once the GBI completes its investigation. The announcement scheduled for Friday by Dorsey’s legal team promises to provide further insights into the family's perspective and potential legal actions they may pursue. Fox 5 Atlanta will continue to update the story as it develops.

Beyond the immediate legal and investigative processes, this tragedy necessitates a broader conversation about policing practices within the community. It is imperative that law enforcement agencies prioritize de-escalation techniques, cultural sensitivity training, and accountability measures to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future. The Atlanta Police Foundation has resources to help local departments improve.

The community can play a vital role in fostering healing and reconciliation by engaging in constructive dialogue, supporting local organizations working towards justice reform, and advocating for policies that promote safety and accountability. It's a time for reflection on how we can build a stronger, more equitable community where all residents feel safe and valued.

Cynthia’s Take

As a reporter covering Alpharetta and surrounding communities, I've witnessed firsthand the resilience and commitment of our neighbors. The loss of Zadarious Dorsey is a painful reminder that even in seemingly safe areas, tragedy can strike, leaving families shattered and communities grappling with difficult questions. The details surrounding this case – the unmarked vehicle, the officer’s familiarity with Dorsey, the disputed circumstances of the weapon’s presence – demand a level of transparency and accountability that goes beyond standard procedure.

What concerns me most is the potential for further division within our community. While anger and frustration are understandable, we must resist the temptation to resort to demonization or violence. Instead, we need to create spaces for open and honest dialogue where residents can express their concerns, share their perspectives, and work together towards solutions. The legal process will unfold, but that's just one facet of healing – we need to address the underlying issues of trust between law enforcement and the community.

I believe our local faith communities have a vital role to play in this process. Strong marriages and families are the bedrock of a stable society, and providing support for those grieving and seeking answers is essential. It's also crucial that we re-examine how we approach policing, focusing on de-escalation strategies and community engagement programs that build trust and understanding. This tragedy should serve as a catalyst for positive change, prompting us to ask tough questions, challenge our assumptions, and recommit ourselves to creating a more just and equitable community for all.

Resources

For those seeking additional information or support related to this case and broader issues of police accountability, the following resources are available:

Those who are grieving or seeking mental health support can contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

The loss of Zadarious Dorsey is a tragedy that will leave a lasting mark on the community. It is our hope that through open dialogue, accountability, and a commitment to justice, we can begin to heal and build a stronger, more united future.