Twenty Years Later, Remembering the Tragic Courtroom Shooting that Changed Atlanta Forever
On March 11, 2005, Kiley Barnes lost her father, Fulton County Superior Court Judge Rowland Barnes, when he was shot and killed by Brian Nichols during a trial. The incident, which also resulted in the death of court reporter Julie Ann Brandau and several other victims, left a lasting impact on those involved, including attorney Richard Robbins, who witnessed the shooting and later struggled with PTSD.
As the 20th anniversary of the tragedy approaches, Kiley Barnes reflects on her father’s legacy and the profound grief that persists, while others, like Candee Wilhelm, remember their loved ones lost that day, emphasizing the ongoing effects of the violence.
On March 11, 2025, Kiley Barnes reflects on the tragic murder of her father, Judge Rowland Barnes, at Fulton County Courthouse 20 years ago. This harrowing event, where Brian Nichols shot Barnes during a trial, left a lasting impact on the community and those involved, including attorney Richard Robbins and widow Candee Wilhelm. Discover the stories of grief, resilience, and the quest for justice in Atlanta’s history.
Source: ATL Newsroom