Zoey Price: Joyful First-Grader Shot Dead in Atlanta
In the heart of Atlanta, Zoey Price was a beacon of energy and innocence. At just 7 years old, this first-grader radiated joy through her passion for dance and cheerleading.
Her family remembers her as a little girl who brought laughter and movement into their home, always eager to perform and share her vibrant spirit with those around her.
Zoey's older sister, Tanitya Ervin, described her as someone who could light up any room, a child full of love and curiosity about the world.
Born into a close-knit family, Zoey was the youngest of five children raised by her devoted single mother, Cassandra Ervin. Cassandra, 44, worked tirelessly to provide for her family, ensuring her children had the stability and care they needed.
Zoey thrived in this environment, attending school where she was known for her enthusiasm and kindness. Her days were filled with the simple pleasures of childhood—playing with siblings, practicing cheers, and dreaming big. "She was just starting to discover who she was," Tanitya shared, reflecting on the sister she held so dear.
Tragically, Zoey's life was cut short on February 24, 2026, in a senseless shooting at their home on Tiger Flowers Drive NW in Atlanta.
Around 9:49 p.m., gunfire erupted outside, piercing the walls of their residence. Zoey was struck in the chest, and despite the desperate efforts of her family and first responders, she passed away at Grady Memorial Hospital.
Her mother, Cassandra, was also wounded, sustaining a bullet lodged in her ribs that required hospitalization. In her final moments, as Tanitya held her, Zoey whispered "love you," a heartbreaking farewell that encapsulated the deep bond they shared.
The family recalls the terror of that night vividly. "Normally, when we hear shots go off, we usually do the normal routine," Tanitya explained through tears. "We just get down, but the first person I heard was my mama. I had my phone in my hand and called 911 and held my sister in my arms." This act of courage amid chaos highlights the strength of the Ervin family, even as they grapple with unimaginable loss.
Zoey's death has left an irreplaceable void. As a single parent, Cassandra now faces not only emotional devastation but also financial strain, including mounting bills, rent, a car note, and the costs of caring for her remaining children.
The added burden of funeral expenses for Zoey compounds their grief. In a show of community support, Willie Watkins Funeral Home has offered to handle the arrangements, providing some relief during this difficult time.
In honoring Zoey's memory, the family is planning a balloon release on Monday, a symbolic gesture to celebrate the life she lived so brightly, even if briefly. They urge the community to remember Zoey not for the violence that took her, but for the love and happiness she embodied.
Atlanta police continue to investigate the incident, believed to stem from an argument between two men earlier that evening. Authorities, including Police Chief Darren Schierbaum, have called on the responsible parties to turn themselves in, emphasizing that this was not a domestic dispute involving the family. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Atlanta Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
To support the Ervin family in their time of need, contributions can be made to their GoFundMe fundraiser, which aims to cover funeral costs and ongoing expenses. Zoey's story is a poignant reminder of the preciousness of young lives and the urgent need for justice and community healing.
Zoey Price, forever 7, will be remembered as a dancer, a cheerleader, and a beloved daughter and sister whose spirit continues to inspire those who knew her.
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