Georgia Man Accused of Forcing His Way Into Marietta Apartment With Knife, Intending to Kill Two People, Police Say
MARIETTA, GEORGIA — A man has been arrested after a violent home invasion at the Laurel Hills Preserve Apartments in Marietta, where investigators say he broke into a neighbor’s home with a knife and attempted to kill two people.
The suspect, identified as Yonathan Soto, allegedly forced his way into the apartment around 1 a.m. on November 23, shortly after holding a knife to his girlfriend’s neck inside another unit. Authorities say the terrifying sequence of events began when Soto crashed his car outside his own apartment moments before the invasion.
Police Say Suspect Broke In With Intent to Kill
According to the Marietta Police Department, Soto allegedly shattered a patio glass door to enter a nearby apartment while armed with a knife. Investigators believe he intended to murder two residents inside.
“It’s definitely a little spooky just because you don’t want that to happen to you, of course, especially it being so close to me,” said Ashton Turner, a resident who lives in the same complex.
Police confirmed that a child witnessed the attack, adding a count of child cruelty to Soto’s list of charges. Thankfully, no fatalities were reported, though residents described the scene as chaotic and frightening.
Suspect Faces Multiple Felony Charges
Soto is now facing several felony charges, including home invasion, two counts of aggravated assault with intent to murder, and child cruelty.
Authorities have not released details on the motive but said Soto lived in the same complex as his victims. Police also confirmed that Soto’s series of actions began with a car crash he caused just minutes before the home invasion.
“This could have easily turned deadly,” said a law enforcement spokesperson. “The residents were incredibly lucky to escape serious harm.”
Community Reacts to the Incident
Neighbors described the normally quiet apartment complex as safe and peaceful prior to the event. “I believe it’s really safe. I’ve never had any issues; everybody’s been really friendly,” Turner said, expressing both shock and relief that the incident didn’t spread beyond the initial units involved.
Cobb County investigators are continuing to examine Soto’s actions leading up to the attack, including whether drugs, alcohol, or a domestic dispute played a role.
Soto remains in custody as of this week, with a bond hearing pending. Authorities have not disclosed whether the victims suffered any physical injuries but confirmed that they are cooperating fully with the investigation.
For ongoing updates on this case and other major Georgia crime reports, visit NapervilleLocal.com for the latest verified coverage.
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