Crime & Safety

Gwinnett Police: Man Shot, Killed in 'Possible' Home Burglary

The victim's roommates reported hearing a commotion overnight.

Gwinnett County police are reporting that one man is dead following a suspected burglary at a home in the Norcross area.

On Sept. 2, Gwinnett County Police Department said they received a report of a burglary about 5:15 a.m. at 910 Falling Water Lane, located in unincorporated Norcross.

"It was quickly discovered that one of the residents of the home was deceased inside, apparently from a gunshot wound," Cpl. Jake Smith, said in a Sept. 6 press release.


The victim has been identified as Bryan Ritzert, 27, of Lawrenceville.

"Ritzert’s roommates reported hearing a commotion during the overnight hours, but did not discover the crime until later," Smith said in the press release. "There was forced entry into the home. 

"Robbery is a possible motive, but detectives have not concluded this was the case."

The investigation is ongoing, and detectives are seeking any information from the public.

Contacting police on this case:

  • Detectives can be reached at 770-513-5300. 
  • Submit an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at 404-557-TIPS (8477). (Tipsters are eligible for a $2,000 reward if their information leads to an arrest and conviction.)


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