Man Arrested in Gwinnett County After Shooting Victim 17 Times, Leaving Body at Church
ATLANTA, GA — Authorities have arrested 34-year-old Raymond Cooper in connection with the shocking July killing of 28-year-old Oscar Alexis Cruz, whose body was discovered in a church parking lot in Gwinnett County.
Police were called on July 22 to the parking lot of Cannon United Methodist Church off Webb Gin House Road in unincorporated Snellville, where Cruz was found dead. Investigators say the attack began as an armed robbery at Cruz’s home on Gin Blossom Circle. Cooper allegedly pointed a gun at Cruz, searched for valuables, and then duct-taped Cruz’s hands before shooting him 17 times.
According to jail records, Cooper faces multiple charges including felony murder, malice murder, first-degree home invasion, kidnapping, aggravated battery, and robbery by intimidation, among others. He is being held at Gwinnett County Jail without bond.
Cruz’s family describes him as a devoted father and a kind soul. His sister, Jessica Cruz, said in a statement:
“He was more than a sibling — he was a light in our lives, a devoted father, and truly one of the sweetest souls you could ever meet. His smile, his kindness, and the way he loved his son will never be forgotten.”
Authorities have not released a motive beyond the robbery, and the investigation into the case continues.
A GoFundMe set up by Cruz’s family is helping support his young son and honor his memory.
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