Police seek public's help in Clayton County teen's death

JONESBORO, Ga. - Clayton County Police are asking for the public's help as they investigate the shooting death of an 18-year-old student on New Year's Eve. 

The victim, Cherish Williams, was sitting in a car with two friends at Independence Park when three armed robbers approached shortly before 8 p.m. Saturday, according to investigators.

Officers said the men ordered the group out of the car before one of the criminals shot Williams. The men then ran away.

Tuesday morning, officers held a news conference and pleaded for anyone with information to come forward. 

At the news conference, police said they have checked surveillance cameras in the area, but haven't found anything yet. 

Detectives said Tuesday they believe the shooter thought Williams was calling 911, which is why they think she was shot. 

Sunday, Williams' mother, Robin Reid, spoke with FOX 5's Marissa Mitchell. She said her daughter was listening to music in the car with two friends who were in town from college. She said Williams was a senior at Mundy's Mill High School in Jonesboro.

"One [of the men] put a gun to her friend's head and one put a gun to my baby. Her phone went off because the music flipped. And they shot her," Reid said.

Reid also said Williams and her friends gave the men $50 before the gunfire.

"It was a senseless crime for $50. They got $50 and a life," Reid added.

Police said the male suspects are African American, but no other distinguishing characteristics have been provided.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Clayton County Police Department at 770.477.3515.

Williams' family has set up a GoFund Me Account: gofundme.com/cherish-williams

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