ATLANTA — Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones is calling for an increased police presence on MARTA after a woman was fatally stabbed on a train over the weekend, turning the latest transit killing into a public safety issue in the governor’s race.
Jones, a Republican candidate for governor endorsed by President Donald Trump, said the stabbing was both a tragedy and an embarrassment as Atlanta prepares to host World Cup matches this summer. Jones faces off against Republican Rick Jackson in a June 16 runoff.
In a statement, Jones said he would take steps as governor to make MARTA safer, including deploying Georgia State Patrol troopers on board trains if necessary.
The statement came after MARTA police arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal stabbing. Authorities have described the incident as a senseless act of violence and said the investigation remains active.
Jones’ statement also referred to the suspect as homeless, though officials had not released full details about the suspect’s identity, background or motive in the information immediately available.
The killing comes at a sensitive time for Atlanta and regional transit officials. The city is preparing for an influx of visitors during the World Cup, when MARTA is expected to play a major role in moving fans around the region.
MARTA officials have said police remain committed to the safety of riders and employees. The agency has also acknowledged that violent incidents on the system can create fear and concern among passengers.
Jones has served as lieutenant governor since January 2023. Before that, he represented state Senate District 25 from 2013 to 2023.
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