Inset: John Elijah Matthews (Fulton County Jail). Background: Police investigate after Matthews allegedly stabbed a 66-year-old woman to death on a MARTA train in Atlanta (WXIA).
In Georgia, an unprovoked attack on a commuter train has left a community in shock after a man allegedly stabbed a 66-year-old great-grandmother multiple times. The aggressor reportedly stood over her, watching as she succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities have charged 25-year-old John Elijah Matthews with the murder of Margaret Swan following the tragic incident on a MARTA train in Atlanta. According to warrants acquired by local NBC affiliate WXIA, the attack took place just before 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, near the Oakland City MARTA station.
Reports indicate that Swan was seated alone when Matthews approached her, brandishing a pocketknife. He allegedly slashed her throat, and despite her attempts to flee, continued his brutal assault until she fell to the floor. Matthews is said to have remained over her until the train reached the next station, which was less than two minutes away.
Police arrived promptly, spotting Matthews as he exited the train, allegedly still holding the weapon. He was taken into custody, but unfortunately, officers were unable to save Swan’s life despite their efforts.
Documents reportedly reveal that there was no prior interaction between Matthews and Swan, suggesting the attack was random and without motive. Matthews has remained silent during police questioning.
On Tuesday, federal authorities added charges against Matthews for committing a deadly act on a mass transit system, underscoring the gravity of the incident.
“Margaret Swan was an innocent woman simply trying to get to her destination. My hope is these charges will bring justice for her and her family,” Marlo Graham, special agent in charge of FBI Atlanta, said in a statement. “This crime also impacts everyone who relies on mass transportation to move about their daily lives. Using Atlanta’s train system should be safe and free of violence.”
Swan leaves behind three children, five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, according to her family.
“Her life was stolen for no reason,” her daughter, Shanae Sams, told local ABC affiliate WSB. “My mom was on her way home from leaving from my sister’s house.”
Sams called her mother a “phenomenal person.”
“My mom was the rock of the family,” she told the TV station.
