Gwinnett prosecutors decline charges in 2025 shooting death of Atlanta rapper Tevin “T-Hood” Hood
Charges declined after prosecutor review of self-defense finding
Gwinnett County prosecutors have declined to file criminal charges in the Aug. 8, 2025 shooting death of Atlanta rapper Tevin Hood, who performed under the name T-Hood. The decision was announced in a statement dated Jan. 13, 2026 by Gwinnett Judicial Circuit District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson.
The district attorney’s office said it conducted an independent review of the police investigation and applicable law and concluded there was not a basis to prosecute. The office also said it met with Hood’s family to discuss the decision and offer condolences.
What investigators say happened in Snellville
Police were dispatched at about 7 p.m. on Aug. 8, 2025 to a residence in the 3900 block of Lee Road in unincorporated Snellville after a caller reported a dispute and a shooting. Officers located Hood suffering from gunshot wounds and rendered aid until he was transported by fire rescue to a hospital, where he later died. Hood was 33.
Police statements issued during the investigation indicated the incident grew out of a domestic disturbance at the residence that left a woman with physical injuries. Investigators said the shooter remained at the scene and cooperated, and that the case was being evaluated as a possible act of self-defense while detectives continued reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Key factor cited: lack of an eyewitness to the shooting
In explaining the charging decision, the district attorney’s office said it examined whether an alleged ride-share driver witness was present and determined there was no witness at the scene who observed the shooting. The office said neighbors arrived after hearing gunfire but did not see the shooting itself.
The district attorney’s statement said the facts and the law aligned with law enforcement’s determination that the shooting was self-defense, and that there was not sufficient evidence to bring charges.
What the decision means
Declining charges means no criminal case will be filed based on the evidence currently available to prosecutors. As with any investigation, the legal posture could change if new, verifiable evidence emerges and is presented to authorities, but no such development was identified in the district attorney’s announcement.
Case timeline
Aug. 8, 2025: Police respond to a reported dispute and shooting on Lee Road in unincorporated Snellville; Hood is transported to a hospital and later dies.
Aug. 11–12, 2025: Police identify Hood and describe the case as under active investigation, including possible self-defense considerations.
Jan. 13, 2026: The district attorney’s office announces it will not file charges.
Hood was known in the Atlanta music scene for tracks that circulated widely online and in clubs, including “Perculator,” “Big Booty,” and “Ready 2 Go.”