Demarcus Shirley Obituary – 13-Year-Old Among Two Killed in Early Morning Sleepover Shooting

The heartbreaking death of 13-year-old Demarcus Shirley has left family members, classmates, and the greater DeKalb County, Georgia, community mourning the loss of a young life taken far too soon. Demarcus was one of two victims killed during a deadly early morning shooting at a home on Rockcliff Road SE in DeKalb County on July 2, 2026, in what authorities describe as an active homicide investigation.

According to the DeKalb County Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire at a residence in the 2000 block of Rockcliff Road SE during the early morning hours. Upon arrival, they discovered two victims suffering from fatal gunshot wounds. The deceased were later identified as 13-year-old Demarcus Shirley and 45-year-old Chauncey Newman. Several other people, including children who were inside the home at the time of the shooting, were not physically injured. Investigators have not yet confirmed whether the shooting was a drive-by attack or whether the gunfire came from someone at or inside the residence. Police are continuing to search for multiple suspects.

Family members say Demarcus was not a resident of the home where the shooting occurred. Instead, the eighth-grade student had been spending the night with friends during a sleepover when violence erupted. What should have been an ordinary evening filled with laughter and friendship ended in unimaginable tragedy, leaving his loved ones struggling to understand how such a devastating event could occur.

Those who knew Demarcus remember him as a bright, respectful, and energetic young boy with a promising future. His great-uncle, Gregory Carthon, described him as someone who was eager to learn, athletic, and full of life. Friends and relatives say he enjoyed spending time with his peers and possessed the kind of cheerful spirit that made him easy to love. His sudden death has created an overwhelming sense of grief throughout his family and school community.

The second victim, Chauncey Newman, also lost his life during the shooting. Authorities have not publicly discussed whether either victim was specifically targeted, and investigators continue to examine evidence collected from the scene, including multiple bullet holes visible on the exterior of the residence. Detectives are interviewing witnesses and reviewing available evidence as they work to determine exactly what happened and identify those responsible.

As news of Demarcus’ passing spread throughout the community, an outpouring of condolences has emerged from neighbors, friends, and local residents. Many have expressed heartbreak that a child attending a simple sleepover became the victim of gun violence. Family members have asked the public to keep them in their prayers and to assist investigators by sharing any information that could help bring justice.

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the DeKalb County Police Department or submit anonymous tips through the department’s tip system. Investigators believe even seemingly minor details could prove valuable as the case remains under active investigation.

The tragic loss of Demarcus Shirley serves as another painful reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence on families and communities. Although his life ended far too soon, those who knew him hope he will be remembered not for the circumstances of his death, but for his kindness, youthful energy, and the bright future that was taken away. As the investigation continues, his family joins the community in seeking answers, accountability, and justice for a beloved 13-year-old whose life was cut tragically short.