Johns Creek police have determined a woman whose body was found in a burning car in Gwinnett County was killed before being taken across the county line.
Police confirmed to Channel 2 Action News on Thursday that Johns Creek will handle an investigation into the woman’s death, which they believe happened sometime in the six hours between a shooting in Johns Creek on Oct. 29 and when the car was discovered on fire.
MORE: Homicide, arson investigations underway after body found in burning vehicle
The woman, who is in her early 20s, died from a gunshot wound, according to the Gwinnett County Medical Examiner’s office. She has not yet been named by police.
Her body was discovered about 3:30 a.m. Oct. 30, after fire crews extinguished a vehicle fire outside the Springlake Cove neighborhood clubhouse in Lawrenceville. Six hours earlier, police believe she was involved in a shooting at the Retreat at Johns Creek apartments in Fulton County.
RELATED: Police search for evidence in Gwinnett burned body case at Johns Creek apartments
An acquaintance of the woman told investigators they drove up to the apartments for a drug deal, Johns Creek police spokesman Capt. Chris Byers told AJC.com.
When the other parties showed up, it went south, he said.
“They had guns, and shots began to ring out,” Byers said. “(The acquaintance) advised that he did shoot back and there was a shootout between them at this location. At that point he fled.”
The man did not know what happened to the woman or his car, he told police. He last saw her sitting in the passenger seat, Byers said.
Police were called to the complex at 9 p.m., but all they found after a search of the area was a bullet on the ground.
Police have not said if they believe the woman was shot in the parking lot of the apartment complex or somewhere else. No arrests have been made, Channel 2 reported.
—Please return to AJC.com for updates.
About the Author
