9-month-old girl shot, killed outside motel; suspect arrested

ATLANTA (WANF/Gray News) - Police in Georgia say a man is in custody after a 9-month-old girl was shot and killed outside a motel.

Cobb County Police responded around 8 p.m. Tuesday to Budgetel Inns and Suites - Atlanta Galleria Stadium after a mother called 911 to report her 9-month-old daughter had been shot. Officers say the baby “was beyond lifesaving measures” and was later pronounced dead at the scene.

The circumstances of the shooting are currently unknown. However, one witness, who wanted to remain anonymous, told WANF that she believes someone was trying to shoot her friend but instead shot the baby.

“It’s sad because I just met the baby, and the baby was really precious,” the witness said.

Police arrested 22-year-old Ladarrius Brown. He is charged with felony murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.

Witnesses who heard the gunfire say they saw the 9-month-old girl outside earlier in the day.

“She brings joy to my life. My kids are all grown, so I don’t have babies around me like that. So, when I see babies, I feel a certain type of way,” Sasha Murphy said.

Another witness, Dessi Huntington, says she would often babysit the little girl to help out her mother.

“No matter what, I would protect that child, and I blame myself,” Huntington said. “Every time I try to stop thinking about her, I always hear her little squeals, her little laugh, no matter what I do.”

Investigators went back out to the motel Wednesday to process prints and take photos of the bullet holes in the windows of the motel. Police say they anticipate more arrests as the investigation continues.

Brown is being held in the Cobb County Jail without bond. Records show he was previously convicted on theft, battery, weapon and loitering charges in the county.

Detectives urge anyone with information on the case to contact the Cobb County Police Department Major Crimes Unit at (770) 499-3945.