KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Knoxville Police Department announced a second person is in custody in connection with the shooting death of 18-year-old Jaqwan Gillette.
Police arrested a 17-year-old male at an apartment in the 2000 block of Dandridge Avenue on Thursday, March 31. KPD said it has filed juvenile petitions for attempted first-degree murder and attempted aggravated robbery.
Shani Harris, a 20-year-old, was charged with attempted first-degree murder, attempted aggravated robbery, possession of a firearm during the commission of a dangerous felony and vandalism in connection with the shooting death of Gillette. She was charged on Wednesday, March 30. A grand jury will consider her case.
The shooting occurred on Monday, March 28. Officers responded to a shots fired call at the Dollar General at 3275 Sutherland Avenue around 8:13 p.m. Minutes later, officers were told a man had collapsed in the lower parking lot of the Sutherland Flats apartments at 3200 Atchley Ridge Way, according to KPD.
Police said officers found Gillette, who had been shot at least once. Officers and EMS tried to render aid, but the victim was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation led by KPD's Violent Crimes Unit showed that two cars entered the parking lot of the Dollar General to conduct a marijuana transaction.
Harris and the 17-year-old juvenile were together at the time of the marijuana transaction, KPD said.
Harris and Gillette then fired upon another involved party, who returned gunfire. Gillette was struck in the exchange of gunfire, according to KPD.
According to warrants, information was obtained from a phone outlining the plan to commit a robbery on March 28, and Harris admitted to firing at the victim as he fled. Harris told officials she got rid of her firearm.
A family member and KPD confirmed to WBIR that Jaqwan Gillette is the older brother of Jamarion "Dada" Gillette, a 15-year-old who was found shot, lying on the side of Cherokee Trail in South Knoxville on March 2021.
Anyone with information is urged to contact East Tennessee Valley Crime Stoppers by phone at 865-215-7165, online at www.easttnvalleycrimestoppers.org, the P3 Tips mobile app or by texting **TIPS. Tipsters can remain anonymous and be eligible to receive a cash reward.
The investigation is ongoing and we will update you as we learn more.
Editorial Note: The story has been edited to reflect the correct charges. KPD initially reported Shani Harris was charged with murder in perpetration of a crime.