In September of 2025, People reported that a mother and daughter had been fatally shot during a custody exchange in Georgia. This incident highlights how dangerous custody exchanges can be, and divorced parents may want to exercise more caution during these interactions. With help from a Georgia custody attorney, it may be possible to conduct these custody exchanges in a safer manner while minimizing the potential for violence.
Mother Was Shot Years After Shooting Ex in Self-Defense
Sources say that back in 2021, the mother shot her then-husband in self-defense. A judge acquitted her of criminal charges in this case, and the two parents attempted to share custody going forward. People say that when the shooting occurred in 2021, the ex-husband was wounded in the cranium. Their divorce became final in 2024.
In September of 2025, the couple met once again for a custody exchange in a Best Buy parking lot. However, the altercation quickly turned violent and ended with the deaths of the woman and her mother. The couple’s five-year-old son was present at the time of the shooting and witnessed the fatalities.
After the incident, the ex-husband reportedly called 911 and claimed that he had acted in self-defense. He also seems to have suffered gunshot wounds during the altercation, which would suggest that the woman was armed at the time. However, this claim of self-defense did not convince the authorities, who arrested the man and charged him with several crimes, including murder.
Regardless of the specifics, this incident highlights how dangerous custody exchanges can be for parents in Georgia. Even if these exchanges occur in public spaces, there is always the possibility of violence. Violence is particularly likely if one or both parents are bitter or resentful about past events.
How Do I Reduce the Chances of Violence During Custody Exchanges in Georgia?
There are a number of programs and organizations in Georgia that organize “supervised exchanges” for divorced or separated parents. These services allow parents to confidently exchange custody without worrying about the possibility of violence.
Supervised exchanges are often court-ordered in relationships where future violence is likely. Consider discussing this option with an experienced child custody attorney in Georgia if you’re concerned about the possibility of violence. The truth is that violence during exchanges should never happen, and courts should always take steps to avoid these tragedies.
Can a Child Custody Attorney in Georgia Help With Exchanges?
If you are concerned about the safety of yourself and your children during custody exchanges, consider speaking with an experienced child custody lawyer in Georgia. These legal professionals may be able to help you explore various strategies and options that minimize the potential for violence. For example, you may be able to carry out your custody exchanges in the presence of law enforcement officers. To learn more, contact Lankford & Moore Law today.
