The Gwinnett County Police Department has one suspect in custody in connection with 17-year-old Elijah DeWitt's death.
According to a press release from the agency, the suspect is from out-of-state. Detectives believe the suspect may have known DeWitt and they do not believe the encounter was random. The investigation is ongoing.
Original story posted 10-06-2022 at 8:15 a.m.
A football player for Jefferson High School was found dead with a gunshot wound Wednesday evening in the parking lot of Sugarloaf Mills Mall in Lawrenceville.
According to a press release from the Gwinnett County Police Department, the victim was Elijah DeWitt, 17.
"The Jefferson High School Football program is heartbroken as we mourn the loss of one of our own, Elijah DeWitt," a tweet from Jefferson Football reads. "The DeWitt family is in our thoughts and prayers. We appreciate your understanding as we respect the family’s privacy during this time."
Officers responded just after 8:15 p.m. to a "person shot call" at 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway. Arriving officers found DeWitt deceased on the ground in the parking lot with gunshot wounds.
This investigation is active and detectives are exploring all motives.
"If anyone has any information to share in this case, please contact GCPD detectives at 770-513-5300," the release reads. "To remain anonymous, tipsters should contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrimeATL.com. Crime Stoppers tipsters can receive a cash reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case."
DeWitt was a senior wide receiver/cornerback on the Jefferson football team and was having a breakout season for the Dragons. He started all six games so far this season.
On offense, he was leading the team in catches (22), receiving yards (594) and touchdown receptions with 5. On defense, he had 12 tackles, 1 interception, and 2 pass break ups on the season.
Students in Jefferson City Schools were off this week for fall break.
