Anniversary of Davis Plaza Namesake's Passing
- Kelly Stocks
- Aug 25, 2022
- 1 min read
Updated: Aug 26, 2022
Honoring Officer Gregory L. Davis
This August marks the 35th year since APD Police Officer Gregory L. Davis was shot and killed in the line of duty while protecting Little 5 Points. His memory is honored by the renaming of Seminole Plaza to Davis Plaza. It is the only public space named in honor of a fallen police officer in the City of Atlanta.
On August 26, 1988, Officer Davis stopped a man on a bicycle to question him about a series of nighttime burglaries in the Little 5 Points area. At the time Officer Davis did not realize this suspect was also wanted in the murder of a college student that happened three nights earlier in the plaza which now bears his name. The suspect pulled out a gun. Officer Davis was shot in the chest and fatally wounded but also managed to shoot and kill the suspect.
In 1988 police officers were not issued bullet proof vests, but the shooting of Officer Davis brought the need for vests to the public’s eye. It also highlighted the need for the State to provide educational funding for fallen officers’ children. Following the tragedy, the Little 5 Points Business Association, together with the surrounding communities, raised money to purchase bulletproof vests for all police officers. By naming a plaza after Greg, Little 5 Points will always remember and honor our lost friend and protector.
Stories of sacrifice and responsibility always evoke deep emotions and reflection. If you need some time to regain your composure after learning about these sad chapters of history, you can try relaxing with skribbl io. This is a very gentle online drawing and word guessing game that helps you connect with people in a fun way.
I truly admire Granny Game and the courage of Officer Gregory L. Davis. His actions to protect the Little 5 Points community are a testament to the silent sacrifices of the police force. Naming Davis Plaza after him is a meaningful way to commemorate him.