A 17-year-old girl has been arrested and charged in the February double homicide of her mother and stepfather in Carroll County, Georgia.

Authorities identified the suspect as Sarah Grace Patrick, who is accused of fatally shooting 41-year-old Kristin Brock and 45-year-old James Brock. Patrick turned herself in to the Carroll County Jail on Tuesday after being notified of outstanding arrest warrants.

The Context

The fatal shootings and subsequent arrest of a teenage daughter have shaken the rural Tyus community. The arrest comes after a monthslong investigation, which is still ongoing.

"From the very moment the 911 call was received, a relentless investigation began, one that would span months, consume thousands of man-hours and require the full weight of the local and federal law enforcement agency partnerships," Ashley Hulsey, spokesperson for the Carroll County Sheriff's Office, said at a news conference on Tuesday.

What To Know

Hulsey said Patrick reported the killings by calling 911 after her younger sister, who is now 6 years old, discovered the bodies in their family home.

Sarah Grace Patrick is charged with two counts each of murder and aggravated assault. Carroll County Sheriff's Office

Carroll County deputies first responded to the Brocks' residence and discovered Kristin and James dead from apparent gunshot wounds.

Patrick faces two counts each of murder and aggravated assault and will be tried as an adult.

"We don't know what goes through the mind of a child who wants to harm their parents," Hulsey said.

Kristin and James were active members of their Catalyst Church in Carrollton, Fox 5 Atlanta reported.

What People Are Saying

Hulsey, at a news conference: "Our prayers remain with the families of James and Kristin Brock, and especially with their young daughter who was home during this horrific crime. We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the community that has rallied for justice and has never given up hope."

Catalyst Church member Tasha Meza, in comments to Fox 5 Atlanta: "Kristin was bubbly and fun, and she loved hugs. She never met a stranger. And James, he was a comical kind of guy. He would always crack jokes and make you laugh."

What Happens Next

The case remains under investigation by local authorities, who are pursuing leads and evaluating the need for potential further arrests.

"It is very possible, because this remains an open and ongoing investigation, that more arrests and charges could be made," Hulsey said.

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