Mother, 2-year-old daughter found dead by Cobb County church
Woman, toddler found dead in Cobb County parking lot
Cobb County police found a mother and her 2-year-old toddler dead from gunshot wounds inside a vehicle near Milford Baptist Church, and investigators do not believe any other suspects were involved.
COBB COUNTY, Ga. - A young mother and her 2-year-old daughter were found shot to death inside a vehicle parked outside a church on Sunday morning, Cobb County police said.
What we know:
Officers arrived in a parking lot on Milford Church Road across from Milford Baptist Church just before 11 a.m. Sunday.
The Cobb County Police Department's Major Crimes Unit responded to an initial call about a woman who appeared deceased inside a car.
First responders found the mother and her 2-year-old daughter suffering from gunshot wounds.
Both victims were beyond lifesaving measures, and investigators determined the gunfire came from within the vehicle.
What we don't know:
Authorities have not released the identities of the mother or child.
While Cobb County police confirmed the investigation remains active, detectives said they do not believe anyone else was involved in the shooting.
What they're saying:
Jessica Veasley said she recently met the family while participating alongside the mother in a transitional outreach initiative through Milford Baptist Church.
Veasley said she last saw the young mother on Saturday morning before the tragedy unfolded.
"It was so hurtful. It's hurtful, and it's sad," Veasley said. "The child was, she was so amazing."
Veasley noted the young parent was carrying a heavy load while trying to establish stability for her household.
"They help you get, different transitional phases of life with housing, and they give you a chance to save your money and, you know, move forward in life," Veasley said. "She was working two jobs, and, you know, trying to find daycare."
She urged the public to offer grace and support to others who may be experiencing quiet hardships.
"She said, 'Well, I'll be back.' And after that, I never saw her," Veasley said. "Be thankful for life and check on your loved ones because you never know."