Today in Decatur: Safety Updates, Food Support, and Youth Tech Investments

Here’s a quick look at a busy weekend around Decatur as officials focus on public safety, food support, and new opportunities for local teens.

Library shooting suspect in custody, security stepped up

DeKalb County officials say the man accused in Monday’s shooting inside the Decatur Library’s main branch is now in custody. Police report that an adult man was shot inside the building late Monday afternoon and taken to the hospital, where he is still receiving care.

The suspect, identified by authorities as Medicus Brown, 44, faces charges that include aggravated assault with intent to murder and a firearms offense. County and city leaders emphasize there is no ongoing threat to the public, but the library will stay closed through Monday, February 9, while staff are supported and security changes are put in place.

When the branch reopens, visitors can expect a stronger law enforcement presence and a broader safety review of the building. The county is also moving ahead with previously approved upgrades to security cameras across the library system, including the Decatur branch.

Drive‑thru food distribution taking place today

For residents facing food insecurity, the county is holding a large drive‑thru food distribution this morning, Saturday, February 7. Leaders say the effort is part of an ongoing push to get fresh produce and pantry staples directly into the hands of families who need them most.

Organizers plan to hand out about four thousand boxes of food across six sites, including church locations in Decatur’s 30034 ZIP code. The event is open to DeKalb residents while supplies last, with no registration required.

Teen Tech Center ribbon cutting set for February 19

Looking ahead, DeKalb Parks and Recreation is preparing to open a new Teen Tech Center at the Hamilton Recreation Center in nearby Scottdale. A ribbon cutting is scheduled for the morning of Thursday, February 19.

The center will give teens access to creative technology tools, from coding and 3D printing to music production and podcasting. County officials describe it as a place where young people can explore careers, build digital skills, and turn ideas into real projects close to home.

Staying engaged

From tighter security at the downtown library to added food support and new youth programs, county and city leaders are leaning into both safety and opportunity this month. Residents can watch for additional updates as the library prepares to reopen and as details firm up for Teen Tech Center programming and future community distributions.

Sources

• https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/news/suspect-decatur-library-shooting-custody-enhanced-security-measures-underway
• https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/news/dekalb-county-host-drive-thru-food-distribution-fight-food-insecurity
• https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/news/dekalb-county-parks-and-recreation-hold-ribbon-cutting-teen-tech-center-february-19