2 teens arrested after 18-year-old high school football star found dead in parking lot

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. (TCD) -- A 19-year-old and 18-year-old were arrested in South Carolina after they allegedly shot and killed a high school football standout last week.

According to a statement, on Oct. 5, Gwinnett Police responded to a shooting call at 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway and found 18-year-old Elijah DeWitt deceased in the parking lot. Police said one suspect was taken into custody out of state and detectives "have reason to believe that this was not a random encounter and that some of the parties involved in the incident were known to each other."

Chandler Richardson, 19, and Kemare Bryan, 18, were both arrested in Anderson County, South Carolina, on charges of felony murder, malice murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of certain felonies. Records show the two men were extradited back to Georgia and are in custody in the Gwinnett County Jail.

WXIA-TV reports DeWitt was killed near the Dave & Buster's arcade at the Sugarloaf Mills Mall. The teen was reportedly a beloved wide receiver on the Jefferson High School football team.

Coach Travis Noland called DeWitt a "warrior" and lauded his football talents.

The team tweeted Oct. 6, "The Jefferson High School Football program is heartbroken as we mourn the loss of one of our own, Elijah DeWitt. The DeWitt family is in our thoughts and prayers. We appreciate your understanding as we respect the family’s privacy during this time."

Elijah's father, Craig DeWitt, told Atlanta News First Richardson and Bryan are "forgiven from me."

MORE:

• One Male Deceased in Parking Lot of a Local Mall - Gwinnett Police Department
• 'Heartbroken' | 18-year-old killed outside Gwinnett mall was star high school football player, coach says - WXIA
• 'They’re forgiven from me' | Father of Elijah DeWitt forgives his sons shooters - Atlanta News First