LITHONIA, GEORGIA — The family and friends of Mario Culver, 36, are finally seeing a step toward justice nearly seven months after he was found dead in a burning vehicle in Atlanta, just three days before Christmas. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has announced the arrest of Marcus Overstreet, 42, in connection to Culver’s death—marking a significant development in a deeply disturbing case that had long haunted the Lithonia community.
A Grisly Discovery
The tragic series of events began on December 22, 2024, when Atlanta fire crews responded to reports of a burning car on Wilson Avenue. Upon extinguishing the flames, responders made a grim discovery: the remains of a man, later identified as Mario Culver, were found inside. According to investigators, Culver had been fatally shot in Ellenwood, and his body was placed in the vehicle before it was set ablaze—an apparent attempt to conceal the crime.
At the time, little was known about who may have been responsible for such a heinous act, leaving Culver’s loved ones in a state of agony and unanswered questions during what should have been a festive holiday season.
Break in the Case: Suspect Captured
After months of investigation and collaboration between agencies, authorities received a break. On July 22, 2025, a multi-agency operation involving the U.S. Marshals Service and South Fulton Police SWAT located and apprehended Marcus Overstreet at an apartment on Flat Shoals Road in Union City.
According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Overstreet sustained injuries from a broken window while attempting to escape arrest. He was taken into custody and has since been transported to the DeKalb County Jail, where he is being held without bond.
Overstreet now faces a slew of serious charges, including:
- Malice murder in connection with Culver’s death
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Murder, armed robbery, and aggravated assault (Fulton County warrants)
- Possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of or attempt to commit certain felonies
In addition to charges related to the murder, Overstreet is also accused of family violence offenses, including:
- Simple assault stemming from an incident on October 22, 2024
- Battery – family violence (first offense) from an incident on November 26, 2024, at a residence on Boulder Springs Cove in Ellenwood
Remembering Mario Culver
Though the criminal case may now move forward, the loss of Mario Culver has left a lasting void in the hearts of his loved ones. Those who knew him describe him as a vibrant, generous, and thoughtful individual—someone who valued family, hard work, and community. His unexpected and violent death just days before the holidays added an extra layer of heartbreak for those left behind.
“Mario was the kind of person who lit up a room,” said a longtime friend. “He was full of life, always smiling, always looking out for others. The way his life was taken from him is beyond devastating.”
Culver’s death sparked conversations within the community about the senselessness of violence and the importance of public safety in areas like Ellenwood, where several violent incidents have occurred in recent years. Local advocates have called for greater investment in community policing and early intervention to prevent future tragedies.
A Community Seeks Healing and Justice
Now, with a suspect in custody and formal charges being filed, Culver’s family may finally begin the long and painful process of healing. Legal proceedings are expected to unfold in the coming months, with prosecutors preparing to present a complex case involving murder, arson, and multiple felony counts.
Meanwhile, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has commended the coordinated effort that led to Overstreet’s arrest, citing the diligent work of investigators, federal partners, and local police departments.
“This arrest is the result of tireless investigation and the cooperation of multiple law enforcement agencies,” officials said. “Our goal has always been justice for the victim and closure for the family.”
Final Reflections
The story of Mario Culver is one that will not be forgotten. It is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the devastating consequences of violence. As his family prepares to remember him with love and dignity, they are now bolstered by the hope that justice will be served—and that Mario’s memory will continue to live on, far beyond the tragic circumstances of his death.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.
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