Family speaks out after two arrests in months-long murder investigation

ASCENSION PARISH, Louisiana (WAFB) – The Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office has made two arrests in connection with a March drive-by murder in Prairieville.

Nearly six months after investigators found Chakerus “CJ” Hamilton Jr. shot to death in his car on the side of the highway in Ascension Parish, the sheriff’s office took 18-year-old Aniyah Williams and 19-year-old Quinndarius Dabney into custody.

RELATED: Man and woman allegedly staged fatal drive-by shooting

“Our detectives did a great job of preparatory work, talking to family and people in the community, gathering evidence and information and providing many good leads that led Williams and Dabney to the crime scene,” said Donovan Jackson, APSO spokesman.

Dabney is charged with first-degree murder, drive-by assault, illegal use of a weapon and aggravated criminal damage. Williams is charged with felony counts of the same counts.

Investigators believe that the two suspects knew Hamilton and that he was the target of the crime. However, the background is still being investigated.

“We're still trying to figure that out. But we do know that Chakerus was a well-known and well-liked person in this community among his family, friends and acquaintances. They call him 'CJ', some call him '10 Speed'. He loved cars and had this cool blue Camaro, which is unfortunately what he died in,” Jackson added.

Hamilton's family issued the following statement:

“Chakerus Hamilton Jr., affectionately known as CJ by those who knew and loved him, was a quiet, humble young man. He is loved by many and will be missed dearly. We are very grateful to the Ascension Parish investigators and the entire department for their hard work, long hours and dedication they put in to bring justice to our dear, sweet CJ. His memory will live on in our hearts forever.”

The investigation is still ongoing.

Click here to report a typo.

Copyright 2024 WAFB. All rights reserved.