A dentist in suburban Atlanta is believed to have killed his wife and teenage daughter before turning the gun on himself in what police are calling a domestic-related murder-suicide.
Authorities identified the victims as James Choi, 52, his wife Myoung (known as Young) Choi, 52, and their 15-year-old daughter Grace. Johns Creek police officers discovered their bodies Sunday afternoon, August 31, after conducting a welfare check at the family’s home on Glen Castle Court in the St. Ives neighborhood.
“Preliminary investigation indicates this was a domestic-related murder-suicide,” police said in a statement. “The suspect in this case is believed to be James Choi.”
The city’s police chief, Mark J. Mitchell, described the toll the incident has taken on the wider community. He said, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to those impacted and ask that the community keep them in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.”
James Choi was a practicing dentist at Highland Dental in nearby Suwanee. The office declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation. Grace was a sophomore at Mount Pisgah Christian School, where she was remembered this week as a bright student and a talented violinist.
In a message posted to the school’s Facebook page, administrators confirmed Grace’s death and described her as “one of our treasured and beloved students.” They added: “We wish to express our deepest condolences and our heartfelt love, support, and prayers to Grace’s extended family, friends, and everyone who is grieving with our school community.”
Grace had only recently performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City with the True North Symphony in July, an achievement highlighted by the school’s Fine Arts Department in a tribute. “We are completely heartbroken,” the department wrote in an Instagram Story. “Grace, you are so loved. You make us so proud and you will always be an integral part of our fine arts family.”
For many, the details remain too shocking to process. Friends and neighbors in the gated St. Ives community said they were stunned by the news. Police have not released further details on how the deaths occurred, saying only that the investigation is ongoing and that they would not provide more information “out of respect for the family.”
The incident is the latest in a string of domestic-related tragedies that leave communities grappling with grief and unanswered questions. Johns Creek police emphasized that support services are available for those affected, and Mount Pisgah staff have urged students and families to lean on one another.
