Police Still Seeking Help in Investigation of Fatal Double Shooting Near Nightclub

Athens-Clarke County Police’s investigation into the May 10 double shooting that killed one and injured another continues to indicate both were innocent bystanders, the department said Friday.

Derrick Merritt and Jamaris Walker, both 22, were shot while standing in a vacant parking lot at 1720 Commerce Road in Athens after closing time at nearby Bootleggers nightclub. Merritt died at an Athens hospital; Walter was hospitalized in serious condition. The shootings occurred around 2:40 a.m. on Saturday, May 10.

Police also said Friday they are no longer looking for a light-colored Ford Mustang that was originally suspected in the crime.

“We are now asking anyone who has or may have knowledge of the crime or any cell phone video taken in the area prior to, during, or after the shooting to make it available to police,” the department said in Friday’s statement.

“In addition, we continue to ask anyone who was present in the area during the time of the shooting to contact Detective C. Brogden with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department at 706-613-3888 ext 312.”

You also can contact the Athens-Clarke County Police Department's Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 706-613-3342. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those individuals responsible for this crime.