Atlanta police, family plead for help after deadly truck theft attempt

APD, family asking for info on man's death during January car theft attempt

Atlanta Police held a press conference Wednesday to seek the public’s help in identifying suspects in the January 17 homicide of Javon Brown in southwest Atlanta. There is now a $5,000 reward.

ATLANTA - The Atlanta Police Department’s Homicide Unit held a press conference Wednesday to provide new details and request the public’s assistance in solving the Jan. 17 homicide of Javon Brown, a southwest Atlanta homeowner who died following an attempted truck theft outside his home.

What we know:

Brown, a hardworking pipe fitter who worked seven days a week, had recently purchased the GMC truck that intruders targeted around 4:30 a.m. on King George Lane. According to police, Brown and his wife heard a disturbance outside and discovered individuals breaking into the truck in their driveway.

Brown rushed to grab his weapon and confronted the suspects, demanding they leave. Police say the intruders opened fire on Brown, who returned fire but was not hit. After the confrontation, Brown ran back inside his home, where he collapsed and died from an apparent heart attack.

PREVIOUS STORY: Victim suffers deadly heart attack during attempted car theft, police say

Brown left behind 3 children, including a 6-year-old and an 11-year-old, who as struggling to comprehend the tragedy.

What's next:

Atlanta police are hoping that someone can lead them to the individuals involved in this incident. They are encouraging anyone with information to come forward, offering a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to an arrest.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers or the Atlanta Police Department.

FULL: Atlanta PD talks about death of man in January

Atlanta Police held a press conference Wednesday to seek the public’s help in identifying suspects in the January 17 homicide of Javon Brown in southwest Atlanta.