A 13-year-old boy was killed while sleeping over at a friend's home in DeKalb County, Georgia, after a gunman fired dozens of rounds into the residence, authorities said. The overnight attack on July 2 also resulted in the death of 45-year-old Chauncey Newman.
Demarcus Shirley, the 13-year-old victim, was inside the home with several other children when the gunfire erupted shortly before dawn. Both Shirley and Newman were pronounced dead at the scene. The other children present escaped without physical injuries.
On July 7, authorities announced a breakthrough in the case with the arrest of 21-year-old Keyshun Webb, who faces two murder charges. Investigators believe the shooting was gang-related. Webb is being held without bond at the DeKalb County Jail and faces charges including two counts of murder, eight counts of aggravated assault with a weapon, and one count of cruelty to animals.
According to arrest warrants, investigators suspect Webb was involved in another drive-by shooting on the same day as the fatal home invasion. Ballistics evidence from shell casings recovered at both crime scenes matched, supporting the conclusion of gang involvement.
Police believe four male suspects in two vehicles were involved in the shootings, though no further arrests have been announced. The investigation is ongoing as detectives work to identify the remaining individuals.
Friends and relatives remembered Demarcus Shirley as an energetic teenager with a bright future. His great-uncle, Gregory Carthon, described him as athletic and eager to learn.
Survivors of the shooting expressed deep trauma and grief. Larenzo Pinkins, who was in the house, recounted the horrifying moment he discovered his friend Demarcus. "He was really like my little brother for real," Pinkins told 11Alive. "Demarcus had too much life to live. He died too young."
Larry Bell-Ware, another boy who survived, stated that Demarcus was not involved in any street activity and was simply a normal child who enjoyed playing. "He's just a funny little kid who liked to run around and play like a normal little kid," Bell-Ware said.
Neighbors and children remembered Chauncey Newman as a kind man whose home served as a refuge for local youth. Bell-Ware noted that Newman welcomed any children who needed a place to stay, describing him as "a good person in general."
Authorities have not yet publicly disclosed the specific motive behind the fatal shooting.