The attacks occurred across multiple locations in DeKalb County. Lauren Bullis was found dead around 6:50 AM on Monday in Battle Forrest Drive near Decatur, according to major media. Abel is also accused of murdering an unidentified woman shot outside a Checkers restaurant on Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur around 12:52 AM on Monday, multiple reports indicate. In a separate incident, Abel is accused of shooting a homeless man multiple times outside a Kroger grocery store in Brookhaven at approximately 1:59 AM on April 13, 2026, with the victim found at Cherokee Plaza Shopping Center and remaining in critical condition at a local hospital, according to major media. The motive behind the attacks and the identity of the woman shot outside the Checkers restaurant have not been disclosed by authorities.
Abel was born in the United Kingdom and became a US citizen in 2022, according to multiple reports. He has a criminal record including convictions for sexual battery, battery against a police officer, obstruction, assault with a deadly weapon, and vandalism, major media sources state. Abel was on probation at the time of the attacks, which included a mental health evaluation mandate, according to major media, though it is unclear what specific evaluation was required or if it was completed. How Abel obtained a firearm given his criminal record and probation status remains unknown.
We are deeply saddened to confirm that Lauren Bullis, a beloved member of the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General team, has tragically passed away. She was a respected colleague whose contributions and presence will be greatly missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends, as well as to the families, friends, and communities of the additional victims.
Abel was arrested in Troup County after police tracked his rented Volkswagen Jetta using license plate recognition technology, according to major media. The current legal status of the charges against Abel and when his next court date is scheduled have not been confirmed.
A GoFundMe has been launched to support Lauren Bullis' husband Jimmie, raising about $11,200 from an $18,000 goal as of Wednesday, according to major media. The Department of Homeland Security stated it is deeply saddened by Bullis' death and extended condolences to her family and friends, as well as to the families, friends, and communities of the additional victims.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin described the attacks as pure acts of evil and said his prayers are with the families of the victims. According to Mullin, since President Trump took office, USCIS has implemented measures to ensure individuals with criminal histories and who lack good moral character do not attain citizenship. In an official statement, Mullin noted that Abel, born in the United Kingdom, was naturalized in 2022 and stands accused of murdering Bullis and others in the attacks.