After what began as a peaceful protest turned violent in downtown Atlanta and Buckhead overnight, hundreds also made their way toward Perimeter Mall.
Dunwoody police said cars packed with people started pulling into parking lots about 1:40 a.m Saturday.
Many of the vehicles had their license plates covered up or missing, and those that did have tags appeared to have come from out of state, Dunwoody police spokesman Sgt. Robert Parsons said.
“Throughout the next hours, we had groups at Walmart and other businesses in that area,” he said. “Officers were able to deter any looting and eventually the groups left the area without incident.”
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Parsons said Dunwoody officers received assistance from police in nearby Sandy Springs, Brookhaven and Chamblee.
“In total, we estimate between 150 and 200 vehicles were pushed out of the mall and surrounding area, many packed with multiple occupants,” he said.
In Atlanta, groups clashed with officers, torched vehicles and looted businesses after what began as a peaceful demonstration against police brutality took a violent turn.
Credit: Ben Gray for the AJC
Credit: Ben Gray for the AJC
Gov.Brian Kemp activated hundreds of Georgia National Guard troops early Saturday to help law enforcement contain the violent protests that swept through the city.
>> PHOTOS: Atlanta deals with aftermath of violent protests
No looting arrests were made in Dunwoody overnight, but several people were taken into custody after officers stopped a vehicle that had been carjacked, according to police.
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