[July 3, 2025] – The community is grappling with grief, outrage, and unanswered questions following the fatal shooting of 43-year-old Marchello D. Woodard, who was killed on Tuesday, July 2, by a state parole officer—just sixteen days before he was set to complete his parole.

According to authorities, the shooting occurred during what was described as a parole compliance visit. While official details remain limited, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision (or the relevant state department) confirmed that a state parole officer was involved in the incident that claimed Woodard’s life. The shooting took place under circumstances that are now the subject of an active investigation by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), who responded to the scene shortly after the shooting.

Marchello’s mother, devastated and heartbroken, identified her son as the victim. “He was almost free,” she told local reporters. “He had plans. He was trying to move forward with his life. And now he’s gone.”

Woodard, who had a history with the justice system, was nearing the end of a lengthy and often difficult chapter in his life. His parole was scheduled to officially end on July 18, 2025—a milestone he had reportedly been looking forward to. Family members said he had begun reconnecting with loved ones and was exploring job opportunities in the community. According to those close to him, he had recently expressed hopes of helping others avoid the pitfalls he had once faced.

“He wasn’t perfect,” his cousin shared. “But he was trying. He was showing up to his check-ins, keeping his nose clean, and staying on track. He didn’t deserve to die like this.”

The fatal incident has raised pressing concerns about use of force by parole officers and the protocols followed during compliance visits. Community activists and local civil rights organizations have already begun calling for transparency and accountability. “We need answers,” said Rev. Anthony Walters of the Justice & Peace Alliance. “This is not just about Marchello—this is about a system that continues to use lethal force disproportionately against Black and brown parolees. It’s time for reform.”

Neighbors at the scene described a sudden commotion in the usually quiet area, with several reporting hearing multiple gunshots. One resident, who requested anonymity, said she saw emergency responders performing CPR on Woodard before he was taken away in an ambulance. He was later pronounced dead.

The officer involved in the shooting has not yet been publicly identified. It is standard procedure for the officer to be placed on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing. GBI officials have stated they will conduct a full inquiry into the shooting, including the review of any available body camera footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence.

Marchello’s family has already retained legal representation and is demanding the immediate release of all available evidence related to the shooting. “We want the truth,” said his sister. “He had a right to come home. He had a right to live.”

As tributes begin to pour in across social media, many remember Marchello as a man who had made mistakes but was actively seeking redemption. His tragic death just days before he was due to regain full freedom has left many in disbelief and sparked wider discussions about the criminal justice system’s handling of formerly incarcerated individuals.

A candlelight vigil is being planned by friends and community members who hope to honor Woodard’s life and call attention to the broader issues his death represents.

“This should never have happened,” one supporter posted online. “He was almost there. Sixteen days. Now his family is planning a funeral instead of a celebration. Something has to change.”

Marchello D. Woodard is survived by his mother, two siblings, several nieces and nephews, and a community of friends who say his memory will not be forgotten—and that justice will be pursued.