A close-knit family and community are reeling after the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Teonia Stokes, a pregnant mother, college student, and aspiring teacher, in a violent weekend incident in the Atlanta area. Stokes, who was seven months pregnant with a baby boy, was killed early on January 25, 2026, and her unborn child also died, authorities said.
Law enforcement officials have arrested 36-year-old Dorreous Brooks, charging him with felony murder and feticide in connection with the shooting that also injured another man, identified as Curdarious Williams, who is believed to be the father of Stokes’ unborn son. Brooks’ bond was denied in court, and he will remain in custody as the case advances.
A Life Cut Short
Stokes was more than a victim in a tragic crime — she was a young mother of a 2-year-old daughter, a student teacher at Kennesaw State University set to graduate in May, and someone with dreams of becoming an elementary school teacher. Her family described her as filled with “hope, life and promise,” and said she was deeply loved by relatives and friends.
Relatives gathered at a funeral home in Covington, Ga., on Monday, expressing both heartbreak and determination to seek justice for Stokes and her unborn son. “That’s where the victim’s family wants him,” one relative said of prosecutors keeping the suspect in custody.
Circumstances of the Shooting
According to police, the shooting occurred just after 2:30 a.m. along G.W. Carver Drive in Monroe, a city roughly 40 miles east of Atlanta. Officers responding to reports of gunfire found Stokes and Williams suffering from gunshot wounds. Stokes was pronounced dead at the scene, while Williams was hospitalized with injuries.
Investigators believe Stokes was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire of a separate dispute or feud, though details of the motive have not been publicly released.
Community Reaction and Impact
Stokes’ family says the loss will be felt for a lifetime. Her sisters spoke about not knowing how to explain the death to her young daughter, and lamented how quickly their lives changed. “I just would’ve hugged her long before walking out the door if I knew that was going to be my last time seeing her,” one sister said.
The shooting has also sparked conversations about gun violence and its toll on families in Georgia, particularly the devastating impact when victims include expectant mothers and young children.
Next Steps in the Case
Brooks is scheduled for another court appearance in March, where prosecutors are expected to present evidence in preparation for trial. Police have worked with multiple law enforcement agencies during the investigation and arrest process.
Authorities continue to seek information from the public about the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Anyone with tips is urged to contact local law enforcement as the community mourns and seeks accountability for this senseless loss.
