VIDEO: Several teens facing hate crime charge after Pride flags vandalized in midtown

ATLANTA — Atlanta police give an update on an early morning vandalism case near midtown’s famous rainbow crosswalk as they’re now calling it a hate crime.

Four people are in custody after Pride flags were vandalized overnight near the iconic rainbow crosswalk at Piedmont Avenue and 10th Street in Midtown Atlanta.

According to Atlanta police, three adults and one minor filmed themselves using knives to cut down Pride flags outside Blake’s on the Park, a well-known LGBTQ+ bar. Officers say the suspects were also seen performing scooter stunts in the street.

A witness called 911 to report the vandalism, and responding officers quickly located and detained several of the individuals as they attempted to flee. One or two other suspects managed to get away, authorities said.

Three young men were between the ages of 18 and 19 and are from Dallas.

They are Logan Matthison, Geami McCarroll, and Ahmed Mechkouri.

Another suspect from Taylorsville is 16 years old. Officers cite his father, Aaron Petrus, for failing to supervise his son.

All four are facing charges including Obstruction, Criminal Damage to Property, Conspiracy, and Prowling.

Police say they’re also pursuing a hate crime charge, as well.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to the citizen who witnessed the incident and promptly reported it. This case serves as a reminder: if you see something, say something. Together, we can continue to build a safer and more inclusive Atlanta for everyone” the Atlanta Police Department said in a statement.

The investigation is active and ongoing.

Anyone with information on this case can submit a tip anonymously to the Crime Stoppers Atlanta tip line at 404-577-TIPS (8477), online at www.StopCrimeAtl.org, or by texting CSGA.

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