GoFundMe launched for missing 21-year-old man found dead, hanging from tree in Atlanta park

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ATLANTA — Kyle Bassinga, a 21‑year‑old Atlanta man reported missing on Feb. 15, was found dead on Feb. 18 in a wooded area of Fair Oaks Park in Cobb County. Police said they discovered him hanging from a tree and noted no signs of foul play.

Kyle Bassinga Found at Atlanta Park

According to 11Alive, County Police said officers responded to a 911 call at 9:46 a.m. after someone reported a body in the woods. Witnesses told investigators they saw a man walk into the same wooded area alone on Valentine’s Day at 4:28 p.m.

Detectives said the evidence showed no sign that anyone else played a role. Bassinga’s family told 11Alive that police found him in the park.

Video of Police Encounter Circulates

After police listed Bassinga as missing, a video surfaced online showing a tense exchange between him and a police officer. In the recording, Bassinga questions why the officer asked him to hand over his identification. He also said the officer acted illegally by requesting ID without providing a reason. The officer appeared to ask for a student ID to confirm Bassinga’s enrollment at Georgia State University.

Racial Speculation

Since authorities found Bassinga, people have taken to social media to discuss his death, with many calling it racially motivated even though police say they have no evidence of foul play.

Bassinga’s family acknowledged the conversations online but reaffirmed that they are focusing on preparing his burial and urged the public to avoid speculation.

“Right now, online speculation is the least of our worries. We are focused on burying our son and am happy to have found him,” the family said to 11Alive.

Family Launches GoFundMe

A GoFundMe campaign now supports the Bassinga family with funeral costs and memorial arrangements.. The family described Bassinga as loving, joyful, kind, and ambitious. They thanked the community for its support during their grief.