WSB Now
NEWNAN, Ga. — Police have arrested a man accused of stealing a car before barricading himself in the restroom of a Dunkin’ with a gun.
Newnan officers were called to the Dunkin’ on Bullsboro Drive at 5:30 p.m. for a man with a stolen car.
Artavius Deonte Watts, 39, walked into the restaurant with a gun and barricaded himself inside the restroom, police said.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
All of the employees were able to get out of the restaurant safely before police arrived.
For several hours, SWAT, police, deputies and Georgia State Patrol troopers tried getting Watts to exit the restroom and restaurant.
NewsChopper 2 flew over the area and found a SWAT team surrounding the Dunkin’ with guns drawn.
Dozens of other officers, deputies and Georgia State Patrol troopers were in the area, blocking a portion of Bullsboro Drive.
While inside, police say Watts destroyed the restroom, causing several injuries to himself. At some point, he fired a single gunshot through a wall and toward officers.
Officers were able to enter the restroom and arrest Watts safely. He was taken to the hospital for the injuries he sustained while damaging the restroom.
Watts will be charged with aggravated assault, discharging a firearm and more.
No officers were hurt.
Channel 2 Action News has reached out to Dunkin’ for a statement.
[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
©2026 Cox Media Group
© 2025 Cox Media Group. This station is part of Cox Media Group Television. Learn about careers at Cox Media Group. By using this website, you accept the terms of our Visitor Agreement and Privacy Policy, and understand your options regarding Ad Choices.