Family of victim in fatal shooting, standoff searches for answers

ATLANTA - A local family is searching for answers amid heartbreak after losing a loved one in a fatal shooting and standoff.

Police say the incident happened Saturday in the Polar Rock community of southwest Atlanta. They told FOX 5 News they arrested the suspect, Nathaniel Mathis, after a multi-hour standoff. He's accused of shooting and killing a man during a dispute.

Relatives identified the victim to FOX 5 News as Rodney Benton, 34.

Benton's grandmother, Betty Gamble, said Mathis is related to Benton's girlfriend.

Gamble told FOX 5's Marissa Mitchell her grandson turned his life around and tried to help others. She doesn't understand why anyone would consider causing him harm.

"Rodney had turned a page in his life and he was living and enjoying his life," Gamble said. "He loved fun, he loved nature. He was just a happy-go-lucky guy."

Gamble also said she hopes to one day forgive.

"Unconditional love is the key that will unlock that door," Gamble stressed. "I'm not going to keep bitterness in my heart because that would keep me from living an abundant life."

If you would like to help the family with funeral expenses, click here.