The Atlanta, Georgia community is grappling with the unexpected death of 33-year-old business owner and entrepreneur, Chad Dillon, who was also a business associate of rapper Lil Baby.
Dillon, respected for his notable contributions to Atlanta’s business sector, was shot dead while driving in the city’s Old Fourth Ward neighborhood on July 23, 2024, as confirmed by his lawyer, Malcolm Conner, and reported by Atlanta News First the next day.
The fatal incident took place near the crossing of John Wesley Dobbs Avenue and Boulevard NE. Eyewitnesses reported hearing several gunshots, and Dillon was hit multiple times. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
No suspects have been identified to date, and the reason behind the shooting remains unknown. The Atlanta police are investigating the case.
In the local culinary industry, Dillon was a notable figure. He co-owned The Seafood Menu Restaurant and Takeout with Lil Baby, which was inaugurated in 2023 with much excitement. Before this, Dillon established The Boiler Seafood Atlanta, a highly successful restaurant that reportedly sold over 180,000 pounds of seafood, generating more than $8 million in sales.
In a 2022 interview with TravelNoire, Dillon outlined his business philosophy, stating, “I am a thinker and innovator, so even without a culinary background, I enjoy finding voids in the business market and creating solutions; creating restaurant concepts from ideation to execution, coming up with new menu items, and creating amazing customer experiences.”
In addition to his restaurant businesses, Dillon was recognized for his philanthropic initiatives, particularly in assisting former prisoners to rebuild their lives. Dillon initiated a business plan pitching competition via the Metro-Atlanta Reentry Prison’s Aces Program, providing startup funds to ex-inmates. His objective was to reduce recidivism by offering opportunities for success and mentorship.
Dillon’s untimely death has deeply affected the community, with many expressing their grief and highlighting the gaping void left by his passing. A growing memorial was established outside The Boiler Seafood Atlanta, featuring flowers and messages from friends, customers, and colleagues.
Lil Baby, Dillon’s business associate, paid tribute to him on social media, posting a photograph of the pair on his Instagram story with the words, “Damn big buddy get ya rest,” along with a dove emoji. This sentiment was echoed by many community members who admired Dillon’s commitment and industriousness.
Dillon’s contributions were also acknowledged by other entrepreneurs and community members. The owner of a nearby restaurant described Dillon as a person who was always there for people and gave out Thanksgiving turkeys. Dillon’s legacy as a mentor and philanthropist will continue to inspire those who knew him.
The investigation into Dillon’s death continues, with Atlanta police scrutinizing surveillance footage from the vicinity in an attempt to identify the shooter. The community is urged to provide any information that might assist in solving the case. Dillon’s family, who traveled from Brooklyn, New York, to make funeral arrangements, are also seeking answers and justice for their loved one.
Dillon’s entrepreneurial journey started during his college years at Howard University when he launched a car rental business. His relocation to Atlanta marked the start of his significant impact on the local restaurant industry. Dillon’s innovative approach to business, combined with his commitment to community service, has left an indelible mark.
As Atlanta mourns the loss of one of its own, Dillon’s story serves as a testament to the positive influence a single individual can have. His community work and successful business ventures have set a high standard for future entrepreneurs.
