The family and friends of Linton Blackwell, a well-known figure in Atlanta’s music scene, are demanding answers after an autopsy revealed he was shot 17 times from behind by an off-duty Atlanta police officer. The shooting happened on October 11 outside Five Paces Inn in Buckhead, where Officer Gerald Walker was working a side security job. The new findings have intensified calls for accountability as the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) continues its inquiry into the deadly encounter.
Blackwell, 44, widely known by his stage name B-Green, was described by loved ones as a devoted father, a proud East Lake Meadows native, and a respected music entrepreneur. His longtime friend and manager, Timothy Coleman, said the autopsy findings left him stunned. He shared that learning Blackwell was shot repeatedly in the back only deepened the pain and confusion surrounding the case. “I just couldn’t believe it was 17 times in the back,” Coleman said. “There’s not one shot in the front.”
According to Coleman, Blackwell had strong ties to Atlanta’s creative community and remained deeply connected to his family. He said Blackwell built a reputation through hard work, loyalty, and love for his roots. “He was a loving family man,” Coleman said. “He just leaves a lot behind.” Friends say Blackwell’s death has devastated those who knew him, especially because of the unanswered questions that remain about what truly happened in the moments before he was shot.
The GBI says the incident began with an altercation inside Five Paces Inn, leading to Blackwell being escorted outside. Investigators reported that Officer Walker approached Blackwell as he walked toward a parking lot behind the building. They said Walker followed him around to the back area, where Blackwell got into a vehicle and appeared to place something in the small of his back. According to the GBI, Walker gave commands related to a gun before opening fire.
Coleman disputes that version of events. He believes Blackwell was chased and shot without justification. “The officer ensued, chased him down and gunned him down… that’s what we know,” he said. He argues that the number of shots fired shows Blackwell was never facing the officer. “If he wasn’t pointing a gun at you or doing anything, what does that have to do with shooting him in the back 17 times? That means he wasn’t facing you. He wasn’t a threat.”
Coleman stressed that he has deep respect for law enforcement, noting his military family background and friendships with police officers. But when it comes to this case, he says accountability is essential. “I want him locked up,” he said. “Gerald Walker needs to be behind bars.” As the GBI investigation continues, Blackwell’s loved ones say they will keep pushing for the truth—and for justice in his name.
