An investigation update from Sgt Jennifer Ross and below that, a message from Chief Booker…

It has been confirmed that Karen Pearce was killed by a gunshot wound. Additional details will not be released at this time to protect the integrity of the investigation. We are utilizing every available resource and following every potential lead to conduct a thorough investigation. We recognize that everyone is seeking a quick answer to explain the senseless loss of Karen Pearce’s life but a thorough investigation is a slow and methodical process. Investigators are following up on every potential lead in an effort to establish a motive and identify who was responsible for the death of Karen Pearce.

We ask that anyone with information that could assist in this investigation please contact the Decatur Police Department at 404/373-6551 or Crimestoppers at 404/577-TIPS or online at http://www.crimestoppersatlanta.org/index.

In addition, Chief Booker wishes to send the following message to our Decatur Community.

“I want to first say that I along with the Decatur Police Department am deeply saddened and troubled by this horrific act. We are continually working around the clock as we have been since the incident was reported to us in attempts to identify the person or persons responsible for committing this crime. This investigation obviously is the top priority for our entire department and we will continue to work diligently to follow up on leads and tips as they become available. We will continue with our Extra Holiday Patrol shifts as we have done in the past by having extra officers around the business districts as well as in other areas of the city. Thank you for your continued support during this most difficult time.” – Chief Booker