A Cobb County jury found Donovan Carter guilty of several charges, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, for the killing of Kenneth Cunningham Jr. in Marietta. The incident, which took place on January 3, 2024, led to Carter's sentencing by Superior Court Judge Julie Jacobs to life in prison without parole, along with an additional five years.
The shooting occurred at Cunningham's apartment complex where Carter had disguised himself as an Amazon delivery driver to deceive Cunningham and lure him outside. Carter, wearing a hooded sweatshirt, face mask, and a blue Amazon vest, shot Cunningham multiple times in the back as he tried to escape, later fleeing to Gwinnett County via a QuikTrip parking spot.
Marietta police, assisted by off-duty officers residing nearby, responded quickly. Detective Lindsey and the team collected evidence, including an Amazon vest discarded by Carter, along with surveillance footage capturing both the shooting and Carter's escape route. Forensic evidence played a crucial role in identifying Carter, with a fingerprint on a pedestrian gate linking him to the crime. He was apprehended in Gwinnett County the same day, with police recovering the murder weapon from his home.
Investigators revealed that Carter's actions were driven by jealousy over an ex-girlfriend's relationship with Cunningham. It was uncovered that Carter had previously threatened Cunningham and had been surveilling the apartment complex a day before the shooting.
Cobb District Attorney Sonya F. Allen expressed her appreciation for the team's efforts, stating, "This was a calculated and senseless act fueled by jealousy. I commend Assistant District Attorneys Jay Winkler and Kim Myers for their work on this case. I also want to recognize the Marietta Police Department and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for their thorough investigation, which led to the defendant’s capture."
Senior Assistant District Attorney Jay Winkler highlighted the premeditated nature of the crime, stating, "This defendant planned a cold and calculated murder out of jealousy and a desire for control. What should have been a day of celebration for Mr. Cunningham turned into a tragedy for his loved ones because of the defendant’s selfish actions. We hope this verdict and sentence provide some measure of comfort to his family and friends as they continue to heal."