DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. – A two-month manhunt ended this week with the arrest of 16-year-old Jayden Daniel, who is accused of fatally shooting his stepfather, David Gay, in May.
Daniel was taken into custody on the morning of July 17 in DeKalb County, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. Authorities say he had been on the run since May 13, when Gay, 41, was found shot to death inside their Covington home on Avery Drive.
The Newton County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Daniel is facing several serious charges, including murder, aggravated assault, theft by taking, possession of a handgun by a minor, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. He is currently being held at the Newton County Detention Center and is expected to be tried as an adult.
Following the arrest, Sheriff Ezell Brown thanked law enforcement teams for their role in tracking down and apprehending the teen suspect.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Gay’s family made emotional public pleas for justice. His sister, Talisha Billingslea, described him as a loving stepfather and the family’s main provider.
“My brother didn’t deserve this,” said Billingslea. “He did everything he could to take care of his family. I feel like a part of me is gone.”
Gay, known by loved ones as “Tank,” was remembered as a caring father figure. His father, David Gay Sr., installed a tribute to him on his motorcycle, saying, “So he will always be with me wherever I go.”
Family members had also feared that someone might have been helping Daniel evade arrest and urged the public to share any information with authorities.
After learning of Daniel’s capture, Billingslea expressed both relief and gratitude. “This was the biggest birthday gift I could ask God for,” she said. “We feel peace now that he’s no longer hiding.”
Though the Sheriff’s Office has not released details about how Daniel was found or if others will be charged, officials confirmed that the case will proceed through adult criminal court due to the severity of the crime.
A court date for Daniel has not yet been announced.
