News Summary
The Atlanta community is mourning the tragic death of Sammy Jackson, a former college basketball coach, whose body was discovered following his disappearance. Authorities have launched a homicide investigation after Jackson was found shot multiple times in a wooded area. His family reported him missing when he failed to make contact, raising concerns after receiving unusual texts. A suspect has been arrested as the investigation unfolds, leaving family and community members seeking justice and support in their time of grief.
Heartbreak in Atlanta: Former College Basketball Coach Found Dead
Atlanta is reeling from the shocking news of the death of Sammy Jackson, a respected former head coach at both Fort Valley State University and Savannah State University. Jackson was found dead on Wednesday, and local authorities have confirmed that they are treating the investigation as a homicide. The news has sent ripples of sorrow through his community, where he was loved and admired.
Missing Person Alert
Sammy Jackson’s family reported him missing last Sunday, after they had failed to hear from him. His last known whereabouts were at a Dollar General on Russell Parkway in Warner Robins around 10:00 p.m. that night. Concerns for his safety started to escalate when his wife, Jill Jackson, received some unusual text messages asking for his social security number. This raised a red flag for the family, leading them to take action early Monday morning.
Investigation Unfolds
By Monday, authorities located Jackson’s damaged vehicle in Houston County, but there was no sign of him. Surveillance footage captured him leaving the Dollar General and getting into his silver BMW, but after that, he seemed to vanish without a trace. The search took a heartbreaking turn when Jackson’s body was found in a wooded area off Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway in northwest Atlanta. His family was devastated to learn that he had been shot multiple times.
Sparking Public Concern
Jackson’s tragic discovery came after a tip-off from Houston County authorities, who alerted the Atlanta police about a possible deceased person in the area. Speculation surrounding the circumstances of his death has led to public outcry, with many calling for justice.
A Lead in the Investigation
In an important breakthrough, a suspect named Iquane Brown, 30, has been arrested. Brown, who was previously under investigation as a person of interest, is now facing serious charges, including murder, aggravated assault, armed robbery, hijacking of a motor vehicle, and kidnapping. Interestingly, at the time he was named as a suspect, he was in custody for an unrelated robbery charge. This turn of events adds another layer to an already complicated case.
Community in Mourning
Jackson’s family has expressed their shock and grief over his sudden passing. Known as a devoted husband, father, and brother, he had made a lasting impact on many lives. His son, Desmond Jackson, even utilized his father’s Google location feature to help track down where he was last pinged, which ultimately led to the area where his father’s body was found.
Remembering a Talented Coach
Sammy Jackson, who was a head coach from 2011 to 2018 at Fort Valley State, was revered for his passion and commitment to the game of basketball. His contributions transcended the court; he was involved in mentoring young athletes and fostering team spirit. Savannah State Athletics has already expressed their condolences, lamenting the loss of such a pivotal figure in their community.
A Call for Justice
As the investigation continues, family members and friends of Jackson are determined to see justice served. Community support is strong, with many rallying together to honor Jackson’s memory and push for accountability in his untimely death. In this trying time, the echoes of grief resonate deeply, reminding everyone of Jackson’s lasting legacy and the impact he had on so many lives.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Former Savannah State Coach Sammy Jackson Found Dead
Savannah Man Receives 20-Year Sentence for Armed Grocery Robbery
Community Joins Forces to Find Missing Man in Savannah
Savannah Fire Department Responds to Multiple Structure Fires
Savannah Schools Shine in National Rankings
Savannah Planning Commission Approves Office Complex Near Forsyth Park
Savannah Leaders Driving Growth and Development
Atlanta Community in Shock After Tragic Death of Former Basketball Coach
Tragic News from Atlanta: Former Fort Valley State Coach Found Dead
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
