Friends said 13-year-old Demarcus Shirley was spending the night when gunfire struck the home.
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — A child’s summer sleepover ended in a double homicide Thursday when gunfire tore into a Rockcliff Road home, killing a 13-year-old boy and a 45-year-old man.
Family members identified the boy as Demarcus Shirley. Police identified the man as Chauncey Newman. The shooting shook a home where children and adults had gathered overnight. Investigators said nine people who were also inside survived without physical injuries.
Friends told local reporters they were hanging out and sleeping when the shooting began just before 4 a.m. Lorenzo Pinkins said the group included children and adults. “We was just sleep and we had woken up to shots,” Pinkins said, describing the panic after the gunfire.
Shirley’s relatives described him as a loved child with promise. Gregory Carthon, his great-uncle, said Shirley was athletic and eager to learn. Carthon said the family wants answers in a case that police had not yet tied to any public motive or suspect.
Newman also was remembered by the children who spent time at the home. Larry Bell-Ware said Newman was a good person who gave young people a place to go. Friends said they called him “Pops” because he acted like a father figure to them.
Police said several people were inside the home when shots were fired. Investigators had not said whether the shooting was a drive-by or whether the shooter was closer to the house. Visible bullet holes were seen on the front of the home.
As of Friday, the investigation remained active. Police had not announced arrests, and the next public update was expected to come from DeKalb County investigators as they review evidence and seek tips.
Author note: Last updated July 3, 2026.