Massive reward increase in East Atlanta Village killing

Atlanta police on Wednesday announced a huge increase in the reward in the death of Alex Newton, an East Atlanta Village resident.

The reward officially now stands at $25,000, which is more than 12 times the typical reward offered in metro Atlanta cases.

Newton was reportedly gunned down while fighting with a burglar in his apartment at the Alexan EAV complex on Oct. 31. His brother, Trey Newton, created an online fundraiser to increase the reward, bringing in more than $32,000.

It wasn't immediately clear if the rest of the money will be approved to add to the reward through Crime Stoppers. The family is working closely with police on the case and reward.

The crime has rocked the East Atlanta Village community, which is generally considered safer than some areas of the city.

Police have released security camera footage of a man they're calling a wanted suspect.

On Thursday night, neighbors plan to hold vigil in Newton's name. The event is from 6:30 to 9 p.m. in the lot next to Argosy on Flat Shoals Avenue.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call police or contact Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477, text information to 274637 or visit crimestoppersatlanta.org. Tipsters can also remain anonymous.