Atlanta Father Shoots and Kills His Own Son After Family Argument Turns Deadly
ATLANTA, GEORGIA — A late-night family argument at the Pharr Apartments on Pharr Road NW ended in tragedy when a father fatally shot his own son following a heated confrontation on Thursday night.
Police identified the shooter as 54-year-old Durante Rowe-Tolliver, who allegedly opened fire on his son, 32-year-old Durante Schofield, after misinterpreting his movements during an argument.
Family Argument Escalates Into Gunfire
According to investigators, Rowe-Tolliver received a call from his son’s girlfriend, asking him to come over to help calm a dispute between her and Schofield. When Rowe-Tolliver arrived, tensions quickly intensified instead of easing.
Witnesses told police that the father and son were standing only a few meters apart when Rowe-Tolliver suddenly drew his weapon. Believing his son was reaching for a gun, he fired twelve rounds, striking Schofield multiple times.
Paramedics pronounced Schofield dead at the scene before officers detained Rowe-Tolliver without further incident.
Police: Father Believed Son Was Armed
Investigators have not confirmed whether Schofield was armed at the time of the shooting. Authorities say they are reviewing surveillance footage from the apartment complex and interviewing witnesses to determine what led up to the gunfire.
“It appears to be a family dispute that escalated far beyond what anyone could have imagined,” said one Atlanta police spokesperson. “Twelve shots were fired — it’s a heartbreaking case.”
The suspect reportedly stayed at the scene after the shooting and cooperated with officers. He has since been charged with second-degree murder and aggravated assault, according to early reports.
Community Shocked by Tragic Family Violence
Neighbors at the Pharr Apartments described the scene as chaotic, with residents rushing outside after hearing multiple gunshots. Many expressed disbelief that a domestic dispute between father and son could end in deadly violence.
“It’s devastating — nobody should have to bury their child,” one resident said. “This is a reminder that guns and anger never mix.”
Police say counseling services are being offered to family members and witnesses traumatized by the shooting.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate whether alcohol, stress, or prior conflicts between the two men played a role in the tragedy. Detectives are also waiting for autopsy results from the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office.
This marks one of several domestic-related shootings reported in the Atlanta metro area this month, highlighting ongoing concerns about rising family and relationship violence.
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