Murder Kroger

Murder Kroger Atlanta: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Tourist Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Murder Kroger, officially known as the Kroger supermarket at 725 Ponce de Leon Avenue NE in Atlanta, Georgia, stands as one of the city’s most infamous urban landmarks. Its nickname, derived from a string of violent incidents in the early 1990s, has made it both a source of cautionary folklore and a point of cultural curiosity. Today, after a substantial redevelopment and rebranding as the BeltLine Kroger in 2019, the site exemplifies Atlanta’s journey from adversity to renewal. This comprehensive guide explores Murder Kroger’s layered history, its resonance in Atlanta’s culture, visitor information including hours and accessibility, safety tips, and recommendations for nearby attractions. Whether you are an Atlanta native or a visitor intrigued by the city’s evolving identity, this article provides essential insights and practical advice for your visit.

For in-depth media coverage and the store’s official information, see the CNN report on Murder Kroger and the official Kroger site.

Introduction
Historical Overview
The Origin and Evolution of the “Murder Kroger” Moniker
Community Response and Controversy
Humor, Folklore, and Pop Culture
Social and Economic Context
Rebranding and Revitalization
Visiting Information
- Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Practical Tips & Safety
Nearby Attractions
Community Efforts
Emergency Preparedness
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Visitor Recommendations
References

Historical Overview

The Kroger at 725 Ponce de Leon Avenue opened in the mid-20th century, quickly becoming a staple in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood. However, a series of violent crimes, including homicides and assaults reported throughout the 1990s and 2000s, led to the enduring nickname “Murder Kroger.” The most notorious event was the 1991 unsolved murder of Cynthia Prioleau in the store’s parking lot (CNN). Over time, the nickname entered Atlanta’s urban folklore and became a symbol of both the city’s challenges and its resilience.

Following years of negative association, significant redevelopment took place in 2019, transforming the site into the modern “BeltLine Kroger,” now a part of the vibrant 725 Ponce development.

The Origin and Evolution of the “Murder Kroger” Moniker

The moniker “Murder Kroger” emerged following a series of violent incidents in the store’s vicinity. The 1991 murder of Cynthia Prioleau was the most high-profile crime, but subsequent homicides and assaults, including those in the adjacent apartments, cemented the nickname in local lore. The phrase has appeared in music, comedy, and online forums, underlining its grip on the city’s collective consciousness.

Even as the store was rebuilt and rebranded, the nickname persisted. The Wikipedia page for the location has drawn significant attention, illustrating how urban myths can endure despite official attempts to move beyond them (CNN).

Community Response and Controversy

Locals have mixed feelings about the “Murder Kroger” nickname. For some, it’s dark humor and a way to process trauma; for others, especially those affected by violence, it trivializes real tragedy. As Damon Parker, a witness to the 1991 shooting, remarked, “There’s nothing they can do at this point. They’ve let it go on too long. It’s kind of too late. It’s something that should have been addressed a long time ago” (CNN).

The sale of “Murder Kroger” merchandise and the use of the nickname in pop culture have sparked debate on the boundaries between humor, coping, and respect for victims. Some community members view this as insensitive and commercializing tragedy, while others see it as an emblem of Atlanta’s ability to confront its past.

Humor, Folklore, and Pop Culture

The endurance of the “Murder Kroger” nickname is partly attributed to Atlanta’s tradition of using humor and satire to deal with adversity. Satirical events, such as candlelight vigils for the old store, and the 2007 song “Murder Kroger” by Attractive Eighties Women, reflect this coping mechanism (CNN).

According to folklore experts, America’s fascination with crime and urban legends is not unique, but Atlanta’s embrace of the “Murder Kroger” mythos is particularly telling of its urban culture.

Murder Kroger’s reputation is also shaped by the area’s transformation. The store sits along the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, a corridor that has undergone gentrification, rapid development, and a significant drop in crime rates since the 1990s (CNN). As the neighborhood has become a destination for the city’s affluent and creative communities, the store’s past has become a curious footnote rather than a deterrent.

Rebranding and Revitalization

In 2019, Kroger reopened as part of the 725 Ponce development, with modern amenities such as outdoor seating, a Starbucks, and a BBQ restaurant. Efforts by Kroger and local leaders to rebrand the store as “BeltLine Kroger” have focused on safety, community engagement, and economic investment (CNN). While the nickname lingers among locals and in media, the store now represents Atlanta’s capacity for renewal.

Visiting Information

Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Address: 725 Ponce de Leon Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
Hours: Open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (official Kroger site)
Tickets/Entry: No tickets or entry fees; this is a public supermarket.
Accessibility: The store and surrounding sidewalks are wheelchair accessible. Parking is available in a multi-level garage (fees may apply). The area is also served by MARTA bus routes and is accessible by rideshare.

Practical Tips & Safety

Best Times to Visit

Daytime: Safest and most active period, with many shoppers and BeltLine visitors.
Nighttime: Exercise additional caution; stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone.

Safety Considerations

Crime Statistics (2024): Violent crime rate of 59.62 per 10,000 residents; homicide rate down 8.9% from previous year; aggravated assaults down 9%; motor vehicle thefts up by 5%.
Safety Tips:
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Lock your car and park near entrances or security cameras
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- Use well-lit, populated routes and travel in groups after dark
- Report suspicious activity to store security
Security Measures: On-site security personnel, CCTV, and emergency call boxes

Nearby Attractions

Ponce City Market: Food, shopping, and entertainment destination a short walk away
Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail: Renowned for walking, biking, and public art
Historic Fourth Ward Park: Scenic green space for relaxation or recreation

These attractions highlight the neighborhood’s vibrancy and are ideal for pairing with your Murder Kroger visit.

Community Efforts

Crime reduction has been achieved through collaboration between local police, neighborhood watch programs, and continued investment in area development. Community engagement initiatives and revitalization projects have helped foster a safer, welcoming environment.

Emergency Preparedness

Dial 911 for emergencies
Familiarize yourself with store exits and emergency equipment
Store staff are trained in first aid and emergency response

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why is it called Murder Kroger?
A: The nickname comes from a series of violent crimes at the store in the 1990s, particularly a 1991 homicide.

Q: Is the area safe to visit now?
A: Yes, significant improvements have been made. Still, use standard urban safety precautions, especially after dark.

Q: What are the store hours?
A: Daily, 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (official Kroger site).

Q: Do I need a ticket to visit?
A: No, it’s a public supermarket.

Q: Are there tours?
A: No official store tours, but the Poncey-Highland area is included in some local historical walking tours.

Q: What attractions are nearby?
A: Ponce City Market, Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, and Historic Fourth Ward Park.

Summary & Visitor Recommendations

Murder Kroger is more than just a grocery store—it’s a symbol of Atlanta’s complex history, resilience, and transformation. The 2019 redevelopment and ongoing community efforts have made the area safer and more welcoming, while the nickname endures as a piece of local folklore. Visitors can safely explore the store and surrounding attractions during daylight hours, gain insight into Atlanta’s layered urban past, and appreciate the dynamic energy of the Poncey-Highland neighborhood. For an enriched experience, combine your visit with a walk or bike ride on the BeltLine and explore nearby dining and entertainment at Ponce City Market.

For ongoing updates, safety alerts, and neighborhood insights, consider using the Audiala app and following trusted Atlanta tourism resources.