Atlanta restaurateur killed in shooting on John Wesley Dobbs Avenue
ATLANTA - Atlanta police are searching for a shooter who killed a prominent Atlanta restaurateur in broad daylight near the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park.
Officers were called just after 3:45 p.m., Tuesday to John Wesley Dobbs Avenue, just east of Boulevard NE.
According to the Atlanta Police Department, officers found a male with an apparent gunshot wound. They do not believe this was random.
"Upon their arrival, they located a black man in his mid-30s suffering from gunshot wounds. That male was pronounced deceased at the scene," Lt. Andrew Smith told FOX 5 Atlanta.
On Wednesday morning, the Fulton County Medical Examiner identified the victim as 33-year-old Chad Dillon, the owner of the Boiler Seafood Atlanta restaurant.
Atlanta police homicide detectives are investigating a deadly shooting at 480 John Wesley Dobbs Avenue on July 23, 2024. (FOX 5)
Investigators spent the afternoon combing over the scene, paying close attention to a black Rolls-Royce. They said they are hoping the incident was caught on camera.
Who was Atlanta restaurateur Chad Dillon?
Chad Dillon was the owner of The Boiler Seafood Atlanta, a prominent seafood restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and high-quality seafood dishes. Under his leadership, the restaurant has developed a strong reputation for its innovative menu and exceptional customer service.
Dillon’s vision and dedication to culinary excellence have positioned The Boiler Seafood Atlanta as a sought-after dining destination in the city. His commitment to using fresh ingredients and creating memorable dining experiences has garnered him recognition in the local culinary scene.
Dillon was also celebrated for his philanthropy. He appeared on Good Day Atlanta on Aug. 26, 2022, to discuss his initiative to assist convicted felons in reintegrating into society and enabling them to start their own businesses.
Atlanta entrepreneur helps former inmates return to society
Chad Dillon, owner of the popular restaurant The Boiler Seafood Atlanta, is making it his mission to help convicted felons re-enter society and start their own businesses. Dillon joins Good Day with more on his involvement in the Aces Program.
"I feel that this group is often overlooked, especially when it comes to employment opportunities; it's really hard for them to get jobs," he told Good Day’s Alyse Eady, adding that many in prison are creatives who just need an investment.
Dillon said he found his restaurant he was being denied franchisee opportunities with The Juicy Crab. The restaurant has attracted celebrities such as Allen Iverson, Offset, Queen Najia, Ja Rule, and other notable Atlantans.