Metro Atlanta
Metro Atlanta

Gwinnett teen was killed during gun deal, detective says

A 16-year-old was shot and killed Saturday at an apartment complex near Norcross.
A 16-year-old was shot and killed Saturday at an apartment complex near Norcross.
By Amanda C. Coyne
Dec 1, 2017

A Gwinnett County teenager was killed after meeting with two other teens to buy a gun, Channel 2 Action News reported.

Zachary Nelson, 16, of Norcross, was killed at an apartment complex on Nov. 18. Omar Ramos, 16, and Ronaldo Cruz, 14, have both been charged with felony murder and armed robbery. They are being charged as adults.

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Nelson had arranged to buy a gun from Ramos and Cruz over Snapchat, said Gwinnett County Det. John Cleland at a Friday preliminary hearing. Nelson’s mother broke down in tears in the courtroom when she learned her son had planned to buy a gun, Channel 2 reported.

Noah Fullilove, 17, was shot in the arm during the incident. He told officers that he and Nelson had been robbed. Shortly after, police found Cruz and Ramos. Cruz quickly confessed, but didn’t provide a reason, Cleland said.

“He wasn’t actually able to give me a good reason for why he started shooting,” Cleland said.

Cruz and Ramos are both being held without bond.

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Two other teens are accused in the murder.

About the Author

Amanda Coyne is a hyperlocal reporter for the AJC, covering Gwinnett County.

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