Tragedy in Albany: 56-Year-Old Patricia Duncan Fatally Shot, Police Identify Suspect John Balentine

ALBANY, GA — July 3, 2025 — The quiet of a Thursday evening in Albany was shattered by gunfire on Leonard Avenue, leaving one woman dead and a community in shock. Authorities have identified the victim as 56-year-old Patricia Duncan, a longtime Albany resident remembered by neighbors as a kind and soft-spoken woman who kept to herself and often checked in on others.

Albany Police responded to the scene around 7:45 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, after multiple 911 calls reported gunshots in the 2400 block of Leonard Avenue, located in a residential area just off Radium Springs Road. When officers arrived, they discovered Duncan suffering from a gunshot wound outside her home. Despite life-saving efforts by paramedics, she was pronounced dead on the scene.

According to the Albany Police Department (APD), an investigation was immediately launched, and within hours, detectives identified John Balentine as the primary suspect in the fatal shooting. Authorities believe the incident may have stemmed from a personal dispute, although the exact motive has not yet been publicly disclosed.

Suspect at Large

John Balentine is currently wanted in connection with the murder, and law enforcement is actively searching for him. Officials have not yet released details on his age or criminal background, but they have confirmed that he should be considered armed and dangerous. Investigators are urging anyone who sees Balentine or knows his whereabouts to contact 911 immediately and not approach him.

The APD has released a statement asking for help from the public:

“We are asking anyone with information about this tragic incident or the whereabouts of John Balentine to please come forward. You can remain anonymous and help bring justice to the Duncan family,” said Albany Police Chief Michael Persley.

Community in Mourning

News of Duncan’s death has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit neighborhood. Neighbors left flowers and handwritten notes on her front porch as word of the tragedy spread Friday morning.

“She was the sweetest person,” said longtime neighbor Sandra Whitmore. “She looked after everybody on this block. I just can’t believe someone would do this to her.”

Another resident, Marvin Taylor, shared that he had seen Duncan earlier in the day walking her dog, a small terrier named Lucy. “We waved at each other like always. It’s heartbreaking to know that was the last time.”

Family members are still reeling from the news and have asked for privacy as they grieve. A cousin of the victim, speaking briefly with reporters, said the family is “devastated and just praying for justice.”

Ongoing Investigation

The Albany Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Bureau is leading the case, canvassing the neighborhood for surveillance footage and witnesses. Detectives believe the shooting was not random and are exploring Duncan’s personal connections and recent interactions.

Officials also confirmed that a firearm has not been recovered, and they are working with regional law enforcement to broaden the search for Balentine.

A Growing Concern

This marks the third homicide in Albany in just over two months, sparking renewed concerns about gun violence in the city. Community leaders are calling for a town hall meeting next week to address safety concerns and discuss preventative strategies.

City Commissioner Harold Edwards issued a public statement Friday morning:

“We cannot allow senseless violence to become normalized in our community. We will support law enforcement and work together to find solutions that protect our citizens.”

How You Can Help

Anyone with information about the case or John Balentine’s location is asked to contact Albany Police at (229) 431-2100 or CrimeStoppers at (229) 436-TIPS (8477). Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the P3 Tips app.

Remembering Patricia Duncan

Patricia Duncan was known by family and friends as a warm-hearted woman who had lived in Albany for over 30 years. A mother, grandmother, and retired school district employee, Duncan’s life was one of quiet service and kindness.

“She gave so much of herself to others, especially children,” a friend said. “She deserved to grow old in peace, not have her life stolen like this.”

As police continue their search for justice, the community mourns the loss of a woman taken too soon by a senseless act of violence.