Suspect arrested in double murder in Canton

CANTON, Ga. - Police arrested a suspect in connection with a double homicide in Canton early Friday morning. Authorities say 28-year-old Oscar Tierrablanca of Dallas, Georgia surrendered to police several hours after the murders.

The victims were identified by police as Omar Ruiz, 23, and Antonia Ruiz, 27. Police said the victims were brother and sister. Tierrablanca was taken to the Cherokee County Jail and charged with two counts of murder.

The victims were discovered after officers responded to an assault call around 1:30 a.m. Friday at the Laurels Greenwood apartments in the 1200 block of Hickory Flat Highway. 

Police found the victims, both described as Hispanic, in the breezeway of the third floor. They had both suffered apparent stab wounds, according to police. 

Investigators said Omar Ruiz was found dead at the scene. Antonia Ruiz was taken to the hospital, where she later passed away, according to police.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation assisted Canton police with the case.