Most of the bodies of the victims in the Atlanta child murders were found in South River Forest, a wooded area in Clayton County, Georgia.
The Atlanta Child Murders: A Timeline of Terror
The Atlanta child murders were a series of killings that took place in Atlanta, Georgia, between 1979 and 1981. The victims were primarily young African American boys and girls. The murders terrified the city and the nation, as the killer remained elusive.
The South River Forest: A Place of Tragedy
The South River Forest became a chilling symbol of the Atlanta child murders, as the bodies of several victims were discovered there. The forest's dense undergrowth and remote location provided the killer with a secluded place to dispose of the victims' bodies.
Other Locations of Discovery
While the majority of the bodies were found in the South River Forest, some victims were discovered in other locations, including:
- The Chattahoochee River: The body of one victim was found in the Chattahoochee River.
- Other Areas of Atlanta: Some victims were found in other areas of Atlanta, such as parks and vacant lots.
The Impact of the Murders
The Atlanta child murders had a lasting impact on the city and the nation. The killings sparked fear and paranoia, and the city's African American community was particularly affected. The murders also led to a national debate about race and crime.
The Investigation and Capture of Wayne Williams
The investigation into the Atlanta child murders was extensive and ultimately led to the arrest of Wayne Williams. Williams was convicted of the murders of two adult victims, but he was never charged with the murders of the children. However, many believe that he was responsible for the deaths of the children.
The South River Forest remains a somber reminder of the Atlanta child murders and the victims who lost their lives.