ATLANTA, GA – A late-night argument between a father and his adult son in Buckhead turned deadly last week, leaving a family shattered and a community reeling after police say the dispute escalated into gunfire.

Officers responded to reports of a disturbance at an apartment complex in the upscale Atlanta neighborhood just after midnight. By the time they arrived, 32-year-old Durante Schofield was dead, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds allegedly inflicted by his father, 54-year-old Durante Tolliver.

The fatal incident, according to investigators, began hours earlier when Schofield crashed his SUV into the side of a building. In need of assistance, he phoned his girlfriend, who arrived at the scene and later contacted police using an anonymous tipline before bringing Schofield back to his apartment.

Back at the apartment, tensions escalated between Schofield and his girlfriend, prompting her to call Tolliver for help in calming his son. Police arrived around 12:22 a.m. and began speaking with the girlfriend about the events that had unfolded. Shortly after, Tolliver arrived at the scene to check on Schofield.

Authorities say the father and son initially appeared composed, exiting the apartment together with plans to leave in Tolliver’s vehicle. However, an argument erupted in the parking lot, reportedly set off by Schofield slamming the car door. The confrontation quickly spiraled out of control.

According to police reports, Tolliver claimed he shot his son after Schofield reached for his waistband, fearing he might be armed. However, a subsequent search found Schofield unarmed. In total, police say Tolliver fired 12 times at his son.

Schofield’s family is grieving his loss in the aftermath. His sister, Dee Clyburn, described him as a devoted father of two, expressing disbelief and heartbreak at the loss of her older brother. “I will never be able to call him again,” she said.

Neighbors recounted hearing the commotion from inside the apartment before gunshots rang out. Some residents noted that police had responded to past incidents at the residence, citing a history of domestic calls to the address.

Authorities confirmed that at least 17 calls have been made to Schofield’s residence, highlighting ongoing concerns in the area.

Following the deadly encounter, Tolliver was arrested and faces multiple charges, including murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. He was denied bond during his initial court appearance and remains in custody as the investigation continues.

Police have indicated the case remains open as detectives work to piece together the series of events and determine whether additional charges may be filed.