Homicide Commander Update
Updated Statement
On January 12th, 2022, Atlanta Police responded to a call of a person shot at 833 Harwell Rd. NW. Upon arrival, officers located a 1-year-old child, who had sustained a gunshot wound. The child was rushed to a local hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. The preliminary investigation shows that the firearm was left unsecured in a room with two small children. One of the children gained access to the weapon and fired it, striking the other child. On January 20th, 2022, Atlanta Police arrested the child’s mother on a charge of murder in the 2nd degree.
This arrest does not bring us solace; this is a horrific incident with a nightmarish outcome for everyone involved, but especially the baby who never got a chance to live a full life. When children die due to adult negligence or any other reason, it is heartbreaking. Over the past year, there have been too many times where our officers have responded to a call of a child shot who was seriously injured or killed due to the negligence of adults who are trusted to protect them. As Lt. Woolfolk stated in this video update, the public needs to understand that we will hold all persons responsible when these incidents occur, and evidence is clear. And we will do everything in our power to ensure they are held accountable, to the fullest extent of the law. To be clear, it is not our goal to add to the tragedy in making these arrests, but we must hold those accountable who’s recklessness or complacency leads to the loss of life. Atlanta, help us to help you. If you choose to be a gun owner, be responsible and properly secure your weapons.
Update: Upon further investigation, Detectives with the Atlanta Police Department’s Homicide unit established probable cause for the arrest of Amaiya Dachanel Williams. (DOB 5/00) Amaiya Williams was taken into custody and charged with Murder in the 2nd Degree (16-5-1) for the death of a 1-year-old juvenile. The arrestee is the mother of the victim. The victim succumbed to their injuries on 1/15/22 that were sustained on 1/12/22. Amaiya Williams was transported to the Fulton County jail without incident. This case will be closed by arrest.
Previously Released:
220121896
On Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at around 11:10pm officers responded to 833 Harwell Rd NW on a report of a one-year-old shot. The responding Officers located a one-year-old child with a gunshot wound. The child was transported to the hospital in critical condition. Detectives responded to the scene and are actively investigating the circumstances that led to the incident.
Please keep in mind that this is preliminary information and may change as the investigation progresses.
