Jacksonville: A long-running investigation into the fatal shooting of an Atlanta nightclub co-owner has taken a major turn after authorities arrested a man who had remained wanted in connection with the case for more than three years.

Jonathan Soto, 43, was taken into custody at an apartment complex in Jacksonville, Florida, following a coordinated operation involving local law enforcement, Atlanta investigators and federal fugitive officers.

Soto had been sought in connection with the February 2023 killing of Michael Gidewon, co-owner of the Republic Lounge in Atlanta. Gidewon was fatally shot outside the nightclub during the early morning hours.

Investigators had identified Soto as a suspect shortly after the shooting. According to authorities, the incident followed an altercation at the club involving a man who had reportedly been removed from the premises.

The investigation continued for years as authorities attempted to determine Soto’s whereabouts. His name remained on the Atlanta Police Department’s most-wanted list while investigators pursued leads that could help locate him.

The breakthrough came after investigators obtained information that helped establish Soto’s location in Jacksonville. Law enforcement teams then moved to an apartment complex on Gate Parkway North.

Authorities said Soto initially refused to leave the apartment. Members of a tactical police unit subsequently entered the residence and took him into custody. No injuries were reported during the arrest operation.

Following his arrest, Soto was booked into the Duval County Jail and placed in custody on a fugitive warrant. Authorities in Georgia are expected to continue the legal process connected with the Atlanta homicide investigation.

The killing of Gidewon had attracted considerable attention in Atlanta because of his role as a co-owner of the popular Republic Lounge. The nightclub later closed following the death.

Investigators are now expected to focus on the circumstances surrounding the original shooting and the evidence linking Soto to the case. Authorities have not indicated that the arrest concludes the investigation, and further legal proceedings will determine the allegations against him.

The arrest represents a significant development in a case that had remained unresolved for years. Soto will face the next stage of the judicial process as authorities work to transfer the case from the fugitive investigation in Florida to the homicide proceedings in Georgia.