19 January 2023
The man killed during a deadly shootout at Atlanta's 'cop city' has been identified as Manuel Esteban Paez Teran, 26 and seven others were slapped with domestic terrorism and criminal trespass charges.
The 26-year-old was shot dead after allegedly opening fire at a Georgia State Patrol trooper during a 'clearing operation' of the so-called autonomous zone at the site of a future $90 million Atlanta Public Safety Training Center on Wednesday.
Since June 2021, Antifa and other far-left extremists from across the US have occupied the area to prevent the construction of what they've dubbed 'cop city.'...
During the multi-agency operation GBI said approximately 25 campsites were located and removed from the site.
Additionally, mortar style fireworks, multiple edged weapons, pellet rifles, gas masks, and a blow torch were recovered.
Three people contacted in connection with the materials were asked to provide their names to authorities and then let go...
The Atlanta Community Press Collective paid tribute to Teran, who they say identified with they/it pronouns and also went by the names 'Cami,' 'Tortuguita' or 'Tort.'
They wrote: 'We are devastated by the loss of our friend who was killed by the police. Tortuguita was a kind, passionate, and loving person, cherished by their community.'
'They spent their time between Atlanta, defending the forest from destruction and coordinating mutual aid for the movement and, and Florida where they helped build housing in low-income communities hit hardest by the hurricane.
'They were a trained medic, a loving partner, a dear friend, a brave soul, and so much more. In Tort's name, we continue to fight to protect the forest and stop cop city with love, rage, and a commitment to each other's safety and well-being.'...
In May, eight militants were arrested after police patrolling the area were assaulted and pelted with rocks and Molotov cocktails.
Five people were arrested on December 13 for allegedly plotting terror attacks at the soon-to-be police academy.