Crime & Safety

Cause of Death Released In Roswell Teen Shootings

Carter Davis of Woodstock and Natalie Henderson of Roswell, both 17, were found dead behind a Publix grocery store.

ROSWELL, GA — The two teenagers found dead early Monday morning in Roswell each died from a single gunshot wound to the head.

That's according to the Fulton County Medical Examiner's Office, which released the initial findings of the autopsies performed on Carter Davis and Natalie Anne Henderson.

The manner of death for both 17-year-old residents has been ruled a homicide, the office stated.

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Carter, a resident of Woodstock, and Natalie, who lived in Roswell, were both found deceased next to two vehicles by a delivery driver around 6 a.m. Aug. 1 behind Publix at 885 Woodstock Road.

According to an incident report released by Roswell police, Henderson was the ex-girlfriend of Davis.

Find out what's happening in Roswellfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"Given what the officers had on scene at that moment, it appeared to be a relationship-involved situation," Roswell police spokesperson Zachary Frommer said. "This information can change quickly as evidence and information is gathered but is only meant to be a starting point."

Henderson was at Roswell High School while Davis attended River Ridge High School in Woodstock, and Frommer said administrators at both schools "have been working to set up counselors and resources for students as needed."

Frommer stated both Henderson and Davis suffered from "head trauma," the cause of which has yet to be determined. Roswell police detectives will continue to follow up on leads, conduct interviews and review surveillance footage from businesses in the area.

The Roswell High School band, which cancelled rehearsal on Monday following the news, released a statement concerning the passing of Henderson.

"Tonight we grieve the loss of one of our own," the band said on its Facebook. "Natalie Henderson was a thriving member of the Color Guard — a fun, smart, talented young woman who was loved by so many. Her absence will be felt by each of us tomorrow and for a long time to come. During this difficult time, we ask that you continue to keep the Henderson family in your thoughts and prayers."

The Fulton County School System Monday evening noted "hearts are heavy" and the system's thoughts and prayers are with the families of these "two beautiful students."

"As the investigation continues and more information is gathered we ask that you join us as we come together to support one another through this difficult time," the system said on its Facebook page, adding that both families have requested privacy during this tragic time.

For its part, the Cherokee County School District said it was "devastated" by the news of Davis' death.

The district, which said Davis played football and lacrosse at River Ridge, "excelled in the classroom and on the field and will be greatly missed by many friends."

"Today, he should have been enjoying the first day of his senior year of high school, which is a special time for every child and family," the district continued, adding grief counselors will be available on campus Tuesday to assist students.

Return to Patch for updates.

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