Eleanor J Bowles: Mother, 77, found stabbed to death at Buckhead home inside gated enclave
ATLANTA, GEORGIA: A 77-year-old Atlanta woman was brutally stabbed to death at her home on Saturday, December 10, when Police believe she tried to stop the suspect who was attempting to steal her Lexus SUV.
Eleanor “Ellen” J. Bowles was found dead with stab wounds at around 5.30 pm by her son, Michael Bowles at her home in the tony area of Buckhead in Atlanta, just a mile from the Georgia governor’s mansion. The Atlanta police believe the homicide took place between 11.30 am and 12.30 pm. They are currently investigating how the suspect entered the gated community.
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The police department has also released surveillance footage, in which the person in question is seen near Bowles’ car. The black 2021 Lexus RX350 was recovered Saturday night in DeKalb County. Investigators said it was driven throughout the city before that. "This is not a way a family should have to spend their holiday season — mourning and grieving the death of a loved one," Deputy Chief Charles Hampton Jr said on Sunday, December 11.
Additionally, it was also revealed that Michael was coming home for the holiday to visit with Bowles when he found her dead. "My mom was the North Star in my world," Michael said in a statement to 11Alive. "She was a beautiful soul, and she taught me how to approach the world with empathy." Michael stated that discovering his mother the way he did will stay with him forever and that what happened to her was "his greatest nightmare." He echoed that his visit home for the holidays came just a few hours too late.
Michael also noted that he will continue to spread words about what happened to his beloved mother and he hopes that people who read about the incident will band together to bring about change when it comes to violent and pointless crimes.
A fundraising page has also been set up by Ellen’s close friend. Money raised from the fundraiser will go to an organization she loved -- The Atlanta Humane Society. "It is unbelievable that crimes like this continue to happen in Atlanta, and it must stop," the fundraising page said. "Please send any donation that you feel appropriate to honor her memory and raise awareness against horrific crimes like these in the future. Her family has made it their mission to prosecute those responsible and ensure that the people of Atlanta can feel safe in their homes."
A reward of $10,000 is being offered in the case. Citizens are urged to contact Crime Stoppers with any information at 404-577-TIPS(8477).