Community Devastated After Fatal Shooting of Kirwin Hinds in DeKalb County Apartment Complex
DeKalb County, GA — A quiet Saturday morning turned into a scene of horror and heartbreak as 47-year-old Kirwin Hinds was shot and killed during a violent altercation at the Haven on Peachwood apartment complex in DeKalb County. The incident, which unfolded around 7 a.m. on July 20, 2025, has left the community mourning and two men facing serious criminal charges.
According to arrest warrants and reports from the DeKalb County Police Department, the fatal shooting stemmed from a fight that escalated between Hinds and two brothers: Otis Blakes, 33, and Christopher Blakes, 28. Witnesses described a tense argument that turned physical before Otis allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Hinds once in the head. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Two Brothers in Custody
Following the incident, both Otis and Christopher Blakes were taken into custody. Otis Blakes now faces a charge of malice murder, while his younger brother, Christopher, has been charged with simple battery for his role in the altercation. According to police affidavits, the argument quickly escalated to violence, and the fatal shot was allegedly fired by Otis at close range.
Both men remain held in DeKalb County Jail without bond as the investigation continues. Authorities say additional charges may be considered as more evidence and witness statements are reviewed.
A Community in Shock
Neighbors at the Haven on Peachwood apartments described the moment of the shooting as chaotic and deeply distressing. One resident, who asked not to be named, said she woke to the sound of shouting and a gunshot. “It was terrifying. We heard screaming and then silence. We had no idea someone had just lost their life.”
Kirwin Hinds was known in the neighborhood as a quiet and respectful man. Friends and neighbors say he often kept to himself but was always polite, often seen walking to the nearby store or chatting briefly with locals outside the complex.
“He didn’t deserve this,” one resident said. “He wasn’t the type of guy to go looking for trouble.”
The Investigation Continues
The DeKalb County Police Department is working closely with detectives to piece together a full timeline of the events that led to the deadly shooting. They are reviewing surveillance footage, collecting forensic evidence, and interviewing additional witnesses to determine the full scope of what happened and why.
Authorities have asked that anyone with information or video from the area come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers Atlanta.
Remembering Kirwin Hinds
As the legal process unfolds, the loss of Kirwin Hinds is being felt across the community. His family has not yet released a public statement, but friends and relatives have begun organizing a candlelight vigil in his honor. The date and location of the memorial are expected to be announced in the coming days.
“This kind of tragedy changes everything,” said a neighbor. “Kirwin was just living his life, and now he’s gone because of someone else’s rage. We need peace. We need answers.”