DA Seeks to Have 2nd Teen Suspect Tried As Adult in Carjacking-Murder of Pastor

July 25, 2022 – The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office will seek to have a second 15-year-old suspect tried as an adult in last week’s carjacking and murder of Rev. Autura Eason-Williams, DA Amy Weirich said Monday.

A notice of intent to seek transfer is being submitted to have the case set on the Juvenile Court docket for a hearing. By law, juveniles between ages 14 and 17 who are charged with serious crimes are eligible for transfer to adult court.

Last week a 15-year-old was arrested and charged in the case. The second teen was arrested on Friday.

“Because of the facts, the serious nature of this case and this offender’s criminal history, I am seeking transfer of this case to adult court as well,” said DA Weirich.

Both teens have been detained and are charged with first-degree murder, murder in the perpetration of a robbery, carjacking, especially aggravated robbery, and employment of a firearm in the commission of a dangerous felony.

A report date for both is set for Aug. 1 in Juvenile Court. A transfer hearing is not expected until late August or September.