The closed Kroger building has been empty since 2024 and is now part of a suspicious death investigation.
COBB COUNTY, Ga. — A closed former Kroger on Cobb Parkway SE became the center of a homicide investigation Thursday after a maintenance worker found a man dead inside the vacant building.
The case has renewed attention on a large empty shopping center that neighbors say has sat unused for months. Cobb County police said the death is suspicious and foul play is suspected. Authorities have not released the man’s identity, his cause of death or any details about possible suspects.
The maintenance worker was checking a possible water leak shortly after 10 a.m. when the body was found, investigators said. Officers responded to the former grocery store in the 3300 block of Cobb Parkway SE. The building had operated for decades before closing in 2024. After the discovery, homicide detectives took over the investigation and began working to determine what happened inside the empty store.
Nearby workers described the area as generally quiet. Melk Bibi, manager of a BP station across from the shopping center, said heavy police activity stood out. “You don’t see the police presence around here so much because it’s a very safe area,” Bibi said. He said the death was shocking for people who work nearby and who have watched the former grocery store remain dark.
The site has not been free of activity since the store closed. Cobb County 911 said there have been about six fire or burglary alarm activations at the property since fall 2024. Police also have responded to minor issues there. Officials have not said whether any of those earlier calls are connected to the death investigation. They also have not said whether security cameras, alarms or access points are part of the inquiry.
Questions also remain about the future of the shopping center. County zoning officials said redevelopment has been discussed for about 15 years, but there are no active building permits or land disturbance permits for the property. Bibi said nearby businesses hoped new construction would bring more activity to the area. For now, the vacant store remains part of an active police investigation.
The Cobb County Police Department Major Crimes Unit is leading the case. As of Monday, no arrest had been announced and the victim’s name had not been released. Investigators are expected to provide more information after identification and medical findings are complete.
Author note: Last updated May 25, 2026.