A shocking act of violence occurred in Marietta, Georgia, on January 3, 2024, transforming a day meant for celebration into a harrowing crime scene.
Kenneth Cunningham, a 40-year-old local resident, was fatally shot outside his residence within The Harlow complex, situated near the bustling Cobb Parkway and Windy Hill Road intersection.
Donovan Carter, a 33-year-old man from Gwinnett County, Georgia, has been apprehended and is facing severe charges including murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and illegal possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.
Public Information Officer Chuck McPhilamy of the Marietta Police Department described the incident as a carefully planned and premeditated attack.
Cunningham, who was involved romantically with Carter’s ex-girlfriend, was deceived into leaving his residence under the guise of accepting a package delivery.
On what should have been his 40th birthday celebration with visiting family and friends from Chicago, Cunningham instead found himself in a deadly trap. Witnesses reported a slender, six-foot-tall male leaving the scene immediately following the multiple gunshot incident.
Effective coordination between the Marietta Police Department, Cobb County 911 Center, Cobb County Police Department, Smyrna Police Department, Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, and Gwinnett County Police Department led to the quick apprehension of Carter in Gwinnett County.
Cunningham’s untimely death has left a deep impact on his family and local community. His aunt, Daphne Bell, remembered him fondly for his humor and ability to make others laugh with his jokes and impersonations. Friends and neighbors expressed their shock and extended their prayers for the grieving family.
The investigation has revealed that Carter intentionally drove over an hour to reach Cunningham’s location, disguised as a delivery driver. This calculated act allowed him to confront and fatally shoot Cunningham multiple times outside his home.
The Marietta Police Department is continuing its investigation to ensure justice for Kenneth Cunningham and his bereaved family. While a romantic dispute is suspected to be the motive behind the murder, authorities have confirmed that Carter’s ex-girlfriend was not involved in the incident.
