ATLANTA — A Decatur man accused of fatally stabbing a woman aboard a MARTA train is now facing a federal charge that could carry a sentence of life in prison or even the death penalty if convicted.
Federal prosecutors announced Tuesday that 25-year-old John Elijah Matthews has been charged with committing an act of violence causing death on a mass transportation system.
The charge is connected to the killing of 66-year-old Margaret Swan, who was attacked while riding a MARTA train in Atlanta.
According to investigators, the incident happened around 11:30 a.m. Saturday as the train traveled north between the Lakewood and Oakland City stations. Authorities allege Matthews cut Swan’s throat and stabbed her multiple times during the attack.
Surveillance footage reportedly captured the violent encounter. Investigators say Swan attempted to defend herself before being overpowered and thrown to the floor. Matthews allegedly remained near the victim until the train arrived at Oakland City Station.
Passengers inside the train car fled and called for help as the attack unfolded. Witnesses told investigators there appeared to be no interaction between Swan and Matthews before the stabbing, suggesting the attack was unprovoked.
Police arrested Matthews shortly after he exited the train. Authorities said he had blood on his clothing and was carrying a folding knife believed to be the weapon used in the attack. Swan was pronounced dead at the scene.
Because the killing occurred aboard a public transportation system, federal authorities have joined the investigation. The FBI and MARTA Police Department are continuing to investigate the case.
Matthews is expected to face both state and federal proceedings. Federal officials have not yet announced whether they will seek the death penalty or pursue a sentence of life imprisonment if he is convicted.
The investigation remains ongoing.
