A suspect has been arrested in the murder of Thomas Jefferson Byrd.

Thomas Jefferson Byrd

Thomas Jefferson Byrd

The 70-year-old actor passed away in Atlanta, Georgia, earlier this month after being hit by "multiple gunshot wounds to the back,” and it has now been confirmed a man has been arrested in connection with the incident.

According to the Atlanta Police Department, warrants were issued earlier this week for the arrest of 30-year-old Antonio Demetrice Rhynes, who faces charges of felony murder in the homicide of the ‘Set It Off’ actor.

And on Friday (16.10.20), the APD’s Fugitive Unit, in co-ordination with SWAT officers, arrested Rhynes, who will be incarcerated in the Fulton County Jail after being processed.

Following the news of Thomas’ passing, his frequent director, Spike Lee, took to Instagram to pay tribute.

Sharing footage of him in 'Clockers', he wrote on Instagram: "I’m so sad to announce the tragic murder of our beloved brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd last night in Atlanta, Georgia.

"Tom is my guy. Here below you see him as the frightening character Errol Barnes in CLOCKERS. Brother Byrd also did his thang in my joints — CHI-RAQ, SWEET BLOOD OF JESUS, RED HOOK SUMMER, BAMBOOZLED, HE GOT GAME, GET ON THE BUS, GIRL 6 and CLOCKERS. May we all wish condolences and blessings to his family. Rest in peace brother Byrd.(sic)"

Whilst Viola Davis also said she was "very sorry" about the news.

She wrote: "Oh no!!! 2020! Whaaattt!!! Loved working with you Byrd. What a fine actor you were. So sorry your life ended this way. Praying for your family. So very sorry."

And comedian Jay Washington also took the time to pay tribute to his 'Chi-Rao' co-star.

He tweeted: "Rest In Peace to the legendary Thomas Jefferson Byrd seen here with me and the iconic Spike Lee. I had the honor of working with Mr. Byrd in CHI-RAQ but enjoyed much of his work  SHES GOTTA HAVE IT, SET IT OFF, "N***** is a beautiful thing" in BAMBOOZLED and so much more. (sic)"

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