CARROLLTON, Ga. (UPI) — A 17-year-old Georgia girl, Sarah Grace Patrick, has been charged with two counts of murder and two counts of aggravated assault in the February shooting deaths of her mother and stepfather, according to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say Patrick was the initial 911 caller on the day of the murders, which occurred at the family’s home on Carrollton Tyus Road in Carrollton, a town about 45 miles west of Atlanta. She later became the primary suspect following an extensive five-month investigation.
The victims, James Block, 45, and Kristin Block, 41, were discovered in their bedroom by the couple’s 5-year-old daughter.
Carroll County spokesperson Ashley Hulsey confirmed Tuesday that Patrick turned herself in after learning warrants had been issued for her arrest.
“We feel confident that she is responsible for their murders,” Hulsey stated.
The investigation has involved local deputies, the FBI, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and private forensic labs. Officials cited “mountains of physical and digital evidence” and “countless interviews” as leading to the charges.
Despite the charges, authorities say the motive remains unclear.
“We don’t know what goes through the mind of a child who wants to harm their parents,” Hulsey said.
Sgt. Kim Hope of the sheriff’s office confirmed the investigation is ongoing and that additional arrests are possible.
Kristin and James Block were remembered by their community as kind, selfless people. Tasha Meza, a friend from Catalyst Church, described Kristin as “bubbly and fun” and someone who “never met a stranger.”
Patrick is currently being held on bail as the legal process continues.
