A Georgia man has been charged with murdering his mother and stepfather in what police describe as an isolated domestic incident in Cobb County. The suspect, 31-year-old Martin Duberry, allegedly shot Monica Brookins and John Wells after the couple returned home from celebrating Wells’ birthday on December 6. Authorities say the couple had recently allowed Duberry to move in with them.
According to an arrest warrant, Duberry told investigators he was “tired of them” and admitted to not knowing how many times he shot his mother and stepfather after the initial shots to their heads. Police say Duberry called 911 himself to report the shooting, and officers responding to the home in Powder Springs found him at the scene with his hands raised. Brookins and Wells were transported to a hospital but were pronounced dead on arrival. Investigators later confirmed that Brookins was shot five times and Wells three times.
Neighbors and friends told local reporters that the couple had been trying to help Duberry by letting him stay with them. Kay Hughes, a neighbor and family friend, expressed disbelief at the tragedy, saying the pair were “super nice” and well-liked in the community. “Why would somebody shoot two people that was letting you live in their house?” Hughes asked. “They was just good people.”
Another neighbor, Sanaa Pygatt, reported seeing Duberry surrender to police shortly after the incident, describing officers approaching the home with guns drawn as he walked out with his hands in the air.
Authorities say the attack occurred shortly after Brookins and Wells returned from celebrating Wells’ birthday. The arrest warrant details statements given by Duberry, in which he described being overwhelmed and wanting to be alone. Police have not released further details about what may have led to the shooting, but officials emphasized that the killings appeared to stem from a domestic conflict rather than posing any broader threat to the public.
Duberry now faces two counts of felony murder, eight counts of aggravated battery, and a charge of possessing a firearm during the commission of a crime. Police have not indicated whether additional charges may be considered as the investigation continues.
Residents of the Powder Springs neighborhood say the couple were friendly, welcoming and active in the community. Neighbors described them as polite and kind, often greeting others and offering help when needed. Their deaths have left the community shocked and grieving.
Police continue to process evidence from the home and review Duberry’s statements as part of the investigation. Officials say more details will be released as the case moves forward and court proceedings begin.
The killings highlight the challenges authorities face in addressing domestic violence and family-related disputes, which can escalate quickly and with little warning. Community leaders have urged residents to remain alert to signs of distress among family members and to seek help when needed.
