ATLANTA, GA – An unsettling incident unfolded at the Four Seasons Hotel in Midtown Atlanta when a long-term resident, Jay Stevens Berger, 70, engaged in a violent outburst that led to a hotel evacuation and nearby lockdowns.
Authorities took Berger into custody Tuesday afternoon after he sprayed gunfire from his 33rd-floor balcony and hurled furniture down to the street. Investigators revealed that Berger resided in the residential section of the bustling hotel, away from the main guest quarters.
The commotion began when Berger confronted a hotel employee that morning, prompting a police response to manage a reported mental health crisis. Local officials explained that Berger brandished a firearm and then isolated himself in his room, escalating the situation.
SWAT teams rushed to the scene as shots rang out from behind the hotel room door, forcing an evacuation of several nearby floors. Berger ramped up the chaos by firing randomly from his balcony, leading authorities to issue a shelter-in-place for surrounding areas.
Witnesses captured shocking footage of Berger recklessly flinging items- and eventually a gun- off the balcony before turning his weapon on bystanders below. Despite tossing the gun, reports indicated he remained heavily armed in the room.
Law enforcement recovered multiple firearms from Berger, including a pistol, shotgun, and rifle, all of which were discharged during the standoff. Additionally, authorities said Berger was in possession of several knives.
One SWAT team officer sustained injuries during the operation but is expected to recover. Berger, visibly wounded and bleeding, was taken into custody and transported by ambulance for evaluation.
The suspect now faces charges of aggravated assault following the chaotic episode, police said.