1 00:00:07,640 --> 00:00:10,042 [mysterious music] 2 00:00:10,477 --> 00:00:15,313 - The initial news reports about the murder was shocking. 3 00:00:15,382 --> 00:00:17,315 - [reporter] emotions are raw over the sudden loss 4 00:00:17,384 --> 00:00:19,284 Of legendary boxer vernon forrest. 5 00:00:19,353 --> 00:00:20,853 [camera flashing] 6 00:00:20,921 --> 00:00:25,124 - He had been shot eight times in the back, arm, legs. 7 00:00:26,126 --> 00:00:28,627 He was a world champion boxer. 8 00:00:29,096 --> 00:00:30,795 - Police didn't know if it was a hit, 9 00:00:30,864 --> 00:00:33,765 If it was a wrong place, wrong time. 10 00:00:33,767 --> 00:00:35,600 - We want to try to find out if there are people 11 00:00:35,669 --> 00:00:37,636 That actually have vendettas against him. 12 00:00:37,638 --> 00:00:39,271 [dramatic music] 13 00:00:39,339 --> 00:00:42,074 - One witness saw a man come out of the apartment building 14 00:00:42,209 --> 00:00:43,642 That had been hiding. 15 00:00:44,177 --> 00:00:47,880 - Another witness saw a red vehicle fleeing the scene. 16 00:00:47,948 --> 00:00:51,917 - The surveillance video proved to be critical. 17 00:00:51,985 --> 00:00:55,687 - It's like, damn, that's the key to this whole thing. 18 00:00:55,755 --> 00:00:57,890 - The tragic murder will go down 19 00:00:57,958 --> 00:01:00,825 As one of the worst crimes committed 20 00:01:00,895 --> 00:01:04,129 Against a sports figure, not only in atlanta, 21 00:01:04,265 --> 00:01:05,330 But all of the world. 22 00:01:05,399 --> 00:01:07,533 [dramatic music] 23 00:01:23,750 --> 00:01:26,118 [intense music] 24 00:01:29,690 --> 00:01:32,591 - [narrator] atlanta sports fans have a lot to cheer about. 25 00:01:32,659 --> 00:01:35,227 The city boasts several iconic teams: 26 00:01:35,295 --> 00:01:38,597 The braves, the falcons, and the hawks. 27 00:01:38,665 --> 00:01:42,667 But the big peach is also known for another crowd-pleasing 28 00:01:42,669 --> 00:01:44,836 And hard-hitting pass time. 29 00:01:44,838 --> 00:01:48,507 - Atlanta has always had a strong pulse 30 00:01:48,575 --> 00:01:51,876 In the heartbeat of the boxing world. 31 00:01:51,946 --> 00:01:55,647 In the 1970s, muhammad ali actually staged 32 00:01:55,649 --> 00:01:58,117 His comeback fight to regain 33 00:01:58,251 --> 00:02:00,685 The heavyweight championship of the world 34 00:02:00,687 --> 00:02:02,487 Right here in atlanta, georgia. 35 00:02:02,556 --> 00:02:06,391 - People from all over the world came to see muhammad ali box. 36 00:02:06,459 --> 00:02:08,360 Sidney poitier, diana ross. 37 00:02:08,428 --> 00:02:11,663 I mean, it was a really big deal and since then, 38 00:02:11,732 --> 00:02:15,667 Atlanta has become its own little special place for boxing. 39 00:02:15,736 --> 00:02:19,337 - We started to see a lot of up and coming boxers. 40 00:02:19,406 --> 00:02:21,673 I remember going to the warren boys club 41 00:02:21,742 --> 00:02:23,408 And I had the opportunity 42 00:02:23,477 --> 00:02:27,011 To see evander holyfield there during that time. 43 00:02:27,581 --> 00:02:29,748 - [narrator] but in the summer of 2009, 44 00:02:29,816 --> 00:02:33,351 The city's cheers turned to tears 45 00:02:33,353 --> 00:02:37,422 When one of its boxing heroes tragically meets his match 46 00:02:37,491 --> 00:02:38,624 Outside the ring. 47 00:02:39,960 --> 00:02:43,762 - On Saturday, July the 25th of 2009, 48 00:02:43,830 --> 00:02:47,232 It was a very hot and steamy night 49 00:02:48,034 --> 00:02:52,437 When the unidentified body of a young black male was found 50 00:02:52,506 --> 00:02:53,805 At about 11:00 pm. 51 00:02:55,608 --> 00:02:57,876 - I was at my home, in the city. 52 00:02:57,944 --> 00:03:00,845 I was advised that there was a person shot 53 00:03:00,914 --> 00:03:03,782 At the intersection of mcdaniel and fulton 54 00:03:03,850 --> 00:03:08,320 And I was responding from my residence to that crime scene. 55 00:03:08,388 --> 00:03:10,322 The new apartment buildings off 56 00:03:10,457 --> 00:03:12,491 Of the I-20 interstate in atlanta. 57 00:03:13,894 --> 00:03:17,129 - The neighborhood where this unidentified black male 58 00:03:17,331 --> 00:03:20,899 Was found is part of atlanta that's called mechanicsville. 59 00:03:20,967 --> 00:03:24,536 It is one of the oldest communities in the atlanta area. 60 00:03:24,604 --> 00:03:28,473 - In 2009, mechanicsville was in transition. 61 00:03:28,542 --> 00:03:31,643 Investors were trying to develop that area, 62 00:03:31,712 --> 00:03:34,479 But by all means, it was a rough place. 63 00:03:34,481 --> 00:03:35,980 - There was a shooting every other day 64 00:03:36,050 --> 00:03:38,583 That occurred in that particular community, 65 00:03:38,585 --> 00:03:42,253 But it was certainly a community that was on the rebound. 66 00:03:42,322 --> 00:03:43,988 - [narrator] by the time zimbrick arrives, 67 00:03:44,058 --> 00:03:47,859 Uniformed officers and emts are already on site 68 00:03:47,928 --> 00:03:51,496 And a crowd of onlookers is standing nearby. 69 00:03:51,498 --> 00:03:53,599 - I had crossed the crime scene tape 70 00:03:53,667 --> 00:03:55,700 And that's where lieutenant meadows 71 00:03:55,769 --> 00:03:58,971 Is standing, the homicide commander. 72 00:03:59,606 --> 00:04:03,942 We have a short conversation about the area, the location, 73 00:04:04,011 --> 00:04:06,778 And the fact that the individual underneath the sheet 74 00:04:06,847 --> 00:04:09,680 Has been pronounced dead by emts. 75 00:04:09,682 --> 00:04:11,316 - We made it a point to wait 76 00:04:11,318 --> 00:04:13,117 For the fulton county medical examiner's office 77 00:04:13,119 --> 00:04:16,054 Before we removed the sheet. 78 00:04:16,723 --> 00:04:18,957 Once they arrived, we removed the sheet. 79 00:04:19,025 --> 00:04:20,225 It was at that point, 80 00:04:20,360 --> 00:04:22,393 I immediately recognized our victim 81 00:04:22,395 --> 00:04:25,631 Was the well-known boxer from georgia, vernon forrest. 82 00:04:27,434 --> 00:04:29,734 My heart kind of sunk, because I'm a fan. 83 00:04:29,736 --> 00:04:32,904 - [announcer] vernon forrest! 84 00:04:32,906 --> 00:04:34,806 [somber music] 85 00:04:34,808 --> 00:04:39,811 - From the late '90s, early 2000s, 86 00:04:39,813 --> 00:04:41,946 Vernon was a great boxer. 87 00:04:42,015 --> 00:04:44,916 - [narrator] the champion boxer earned four world titles. 88 00:04:46,086 --> 00:04:47,485 - He actually represented 89 00:04:47,554 --> 00:04:50,855 The united states of america in the olympics in 1992 90 00:04:50,857 --> 00:04:53,625 And afterwards became a professional fighter 91 00:04:53,694 --> 00:04:57,796 Where he achieved great financial success. 92 00:04:57,864 --> 00:05:01,866 - I'm a fan and it just immediately led me to wonder, 93 00:05:01,935 --> 00:05:03,101 Who could have done this? 94 00:05:03,169 --> 00:05:06,905 - This is an area of town that somebody 95 00:05:06,973 --> 00:05:09,808 Of mr. Forrest's celebrity status 96 00:05:09,876 --> 00:05:11,175 You wouldn't expect to find, 97 00:05:11,177 --> 00:05:13,177 You know, midnight on a Saturday. 98 00:05:13,179 --> 00:05:15,914 Why would he be in this particular location? 99 00:05:15,982 --> 00:05:17,816 - [narrator] stunned and saddened, 100 00:05:17,884 --> 00:05:19,784 Investigators watch closely 101 00:05:19,786 --> 00:05:21,953 As the medical examiner's team performs 102 00:05:22,022 --> 00:05:23,955 Its initial on-scene exam. 103 00:05:24,024 --> 00:05:28,026 - I could see the injuries that were evident on the victim 104 00:05:28,094 --> 00:05:30,295 Through his pink polo shirt. 105 00:05:30,364 --> 00:05:35,467 He had been shot eight times in the back and arm and legs. 106 00:05:35,535 --> 00:05:36,901 - Those gunshot wounds 107 00:05:36,970 --> 00:05:40,272 Actually entered his body from the rear, 108 00:05:40,474 --> 00:05:41,940 Which told investigators 109 00:05:42,008 --> 00:05:44,776 That he had his back turned to the shooter. 110 00:05:44,845 --> 00:05:46,878 - [narrator] as investigators try to make sense 111 00:05:46,947 --> 00:05:48,746 Of the famed boxer's wounds, 112 00:05:48,815 --> 00:05:50,515 Crime scene technicians begin 113 00:05:50,650 --> 00:05:52,750 To canvas the area for evidence, 114 00:05:52,819 --> 00:05:55,387 But they don't have to look very far. 115 00:05:55,455 --> 00:05:57,155 - As we evaluated the crime scene, 116 00:05:57,223 --> 00:06:00,859 We found eight .40 caliber shell casings 117 00:06:00,927 --> 00:06:02,927 That were around the body. 118 00:06:02,996 --> 00:06:04,763 - [narrator] while the .40 caliber shells 119 00:06:04,831 --> 00:06:06,164 Appear to be the right size 120 00:06:06,233 --> 00:06:08,600 To have caused the victim's wounds, 121 00:06:08,668 --> 00:06:11,970 Something else grabs the detectives' attention. 122 00:06:12,038 --> 00:06:15,807 - We were able to find within close proximity to his body, 123 00:06:15,876 --> 00:06:18,810 A .45 caliber handgun. 124 00:06:18,879 --> 00:06:21,045 - The shell casings that we found on the scene 125 00:06:21,047 --> 00:06:25,116 Were .40 caliber, so obviously that gun didn't fire 126 00:06:25,185 --> 00:06:28,520 Those shell casings that we found next to the body. 127 00:06:28,588 --> 00:06:31,122 - [narrator] investigators need to find the gun 128 00:06:31,124 --> 00:06:33,658 That killed the boxing icon. 129 00:06:34,294 --> 00:06:36,861 - The medical examiner does an inventory of the pockets. 130 00:06:36,930 --> 00:06:41,065 His wallet contained a couple of pistol permits for him 131 00:06:41,134 --> 00:06:45,637 To legally carry firearms and he had in his pocket, 132 00:06:45,705 --> 00:06:48,606 Couple of loose .45 caliber bullets. 133 00:06:48,608 --> 00:06:49,974 [suspenseful music] 134 00:06:50,043 --> 00:06:51,910 - It went through our minds at that point 135 00:06:51,978 --> 00:06:55,580 That the .45 caliber handgun was mr. Forrest's 136 00:06:55,716 --> 00:06:58,216 And there was a possibility that mr. Forrest 137 00:06:58,285 --> 00:07:01,219 Actually fired at his assailants. 138 00:07:01,287 --> 00:07:03,054 The condition of the weapon, it was open, 139 00:07:03,123 --> 00:07:04,622 The slide was to the rear, 140 00:07:04,691 --> 00:07:06,891 Which indicated that he might have emptied 141 00:07:06,960 --> 00:07:08,059 The weapon itself. 142 00:07:08,128 --> 00:07:13,097 - The fact that vernon had a .45 caliber firearm 143 00:07:13,166 --> 00:07:15,800 That had been shot empty, leads you to believe 144 00:07:15,869 --> 00:07:18,837 That there was a mutual combat situation, 145 00:07:18,905 --> 00:07:22,073 Because the shell casings that are next to his body 146 00:07:22,142 --> 00:07:25,777 Are not from the firearm that he has next to his body. 147 00:07:27,314 --> 00:07:29,848 - [narrator] investigators then catch a break. 148 00:07:29,916 --> 00:07:32,850 They get word from dispatch that police had responded 149 00:07:32,919 --> 00:07:34,886 To a separate 911 call 150 00:07:34,955 --> 00:07:36,988 Made moments before the shooting 151 00:07:37,057 --> 00:07:40,158 At a gas station just across the expressway, 152 00:07:40,227 --> 00:07:43,261 And the victim was vernon forrest. 153 00:07:43,329 --> 00:07:46,965 - The gas station was located some 300 yards away 154 00:07:47,033 --> 00:07:50,068 From where the body of vernon forrest was actually found. 155 00:07:50,136 --> 00:07:52,737 - I walked back to the gas station 156 00:07:52,806 --> 00:07:54,538 Over the interstate bridge. 157 00:07:54,674 --> 00:07:57,509 I was directed to vernon's car, 158 00:07:57,577 --> 00:08:01,345 The jaguar near the air compressor. 159 00:08:01,347 --> 00:08:04,716 The uniformed cops who had got there first obviously 160 00:08:04,784 --> 00:08:08,019 Had done a briefing and interview with the witnesses. 161 00:08:08,088 --> 00:08:10,555 Ernest gilroy, an 11 year old kid, 162 00:08:10,691 --> 00:08:13,391 Was standing with a uniforme police officer 163 00:08:13,593 --> 00:08:14,826 Near that vehicle. 164 00:08:14,894 --> 00:08:17,996 Ernest was identified to me as being the occupant 165 00:08:18,064 --> 00:08:20,965 Of the jaguar with vernon forrest 166 00:08:21,034 --> 00:08:22,634 At the time of the interaction. 167 00:08:22,769 --> 00:08:25,837 - The young 11 year old ernest gilroy 168 00:08:25,905 --> 00:08:28,606 Was the godson of vernon forrest. 169 00:08:28,641 --> 00:08:30,908 - So we got the basics from the uniform officers 170 00:08:30,977 --> 00:08:32,910 That did the initial briefing, 171 00:08:32,979 --> 00:08:34,446 Because ernest had just gone through 172 00:08:34,648 --> 00:08:36,047 This traumatic incident, 173 00:08:36,116 --> 00:08:40,084 So we didn't want to compound that trauma. 174 00:08:40,153 --> 00:08:44,388 Ernest had relayed to them that they needed air in a tire. 175 00:08:44,390 --> 00:08:46,991 Vernon pulled into the gas station, 176 00:08:46,993 --> 00:08:49,293 Pulled up to the front doors. 177 00:08:49,295 --> 00:08:52,764 Ernest said he went inside to get some candy. 178 00:08:52,832 --> 00:08:55,199 - [narrator] the 11 year old informs the officers 179 00:08:55,268 --> 00:08:57,835 When he started walking back to the car, 180 00:08:57,904 --> 00:09:00,738 He saw a man with a gun confront vernon. 181 00:09:00,807 --> 00:09:03,775 He says vernon and the man exchanged words, 182 00:09:03,843 --> 00:09:05,477 Then the man fled. 183 00:09:05,745 --> 00:09:07,411 - Ernest tells the uniform officers 184 00:09:07,413 --> 00:09:09,981 That after the bad guy runs, 185 00:09:10,050 --> 00:09:13,017 Vernon gives chase and ernest gets in the car 186 00:09:13,086 --> 00:09:14,152 And locks the doors. 187 00:09:14,220 --> 00:09:15,920 - The young gentleman said 188 00:09:15,922 --> 00:09:18,690 That he had heard shots immediately after that. 189 00:09:18,825 --> 00:09:20,191 [gunshots firing] 190 00:09:20,193 --> 00:09:21,859 - The store clerk had no idea 191 00:09:21,928 --> 00:09:24,195 What was actually happening in the parking lot. 192 00:09:24,264 --> 00:09:25,930 As soon as he hears the gunshots, 193 00:09:25,999 --> 00:09:27,866 He hits the automatic door lock 194 00:09:27,934 --> 00:09:30,769 For the protection of the customers inside the store. 195 00:09:30,771 --> 00:09:32,270 - Everybody was baffled. 196 00:09:32,339 --> 00:09:35,239 - We didn't know if vernon forrest 197 00:09:35,241 --> 00:09:38,843 Had been targeted specifically because of who he was 198 00:09:38,912 --> 00:09:42,446 Or because he appeared to be an individual 199 00:09:42,448 --> 00:09:45,750 With an expensive car putting air in his tire 200 00:09:45,885 --> 00:09:48,252 At 11:30 pm on a Saturday night. 201 00:09:48,321 --> 00:09:50,888 - At that point, I directed detective zimbrick 202 00:09:50,957 --> 00:09:53,124 To make sure that the gas station 203 00:09:53,193 --> 00:09:54,926 Was taped off and roped off. 204 00:09:56,096 --> 00:09:57,962 - [narrator] investigators search the area 205 00:09:58,031 --> 00:10:00,932 Around the gas station for any evidence dropped, 206 00:10:02,101 --> 00:10:04,402 But they come up empty-handed. 207 00:10:04,470 --> 00:10:09,473 - I walked back the path that was taken from the gas station 208 00:10:09,475 --> 00:10:12,210 To the shooting over the interstate bridge, 209 00:10:12,278 --> 00:10:15,046 Looking for additional evidence, 210 00:10:15,115 --> 00:10:18,783 If there was any, ballistic evidence or witnesses. 211 00:10:18,918 --> 00:10:21,385 There were no pedestrians on the bridge, 212 00:10:21,454 --> 00:10:25,256 But I was able to locate a single .45 caliber shell casing 213 00:10:27,027 --> 00:10:29,160 That has been fired, which is consistent 214 00:10:29,229 --> 00:10:32,130 With the firearm that vernon forrest had. 215 00:10:32,198 --> 00:10:34,966 - [narrator] the discovery of the .45 caliber shell 216 00:10:35,034 --> 00:10:38,302 On the overpass confirms investigators' theory 217 00:10:38,371 --> 00:10:42,140 That vernon gave chase and fired at his attacker. 218 00:10:42,208 --> 00:10:44,175 - We start looking for additional evidence, 219 00:10:44,244 --> 00:10:49,147 Blood, therefore dna, but we searched the entire area 220 00:10:49,215 --> 00:10:51,950 And we were unable to find any evidence 221 00:10:52,018 --> 00:10:54,585 That the individual had been injured during the shooting. 222 00:10:54,721 --> 00:10:56,388 [dramatic music] 223 00:10:56,456 --> 00:10:59,957 - I immediately recognized the magnitude of the situation 224 00:11:00,026 --> 00:11:02,326 And I knew that we wanted to try to solve this case 225 00:11:02,395 --> 00:11:04,863 As fast and as efficiently as we possibly could. 226 00:11:06,232 --> 00:11:08,199 - Law enforcement quickly realized 227 00:11:08,201 --> 00:11:11,035 That there had to be something more to this, 228 00:11:11,104 --> 00:11:14,806 Because of the manner in which vernon forrest was murdered. 229 00:11:14,941 --> 00:11:17,808 - He got shot in the back with his back to the gunman. 230 00:11:17,811 --> 00:11:19,343 This was definitely overkill. 231 00:11:19,345 --> 00:11:20,311 [gunshot firing] 232 00:11:20,380 --> 00:11:21,545 - What was this about? 233 00:11:21,547 --> 00:11:24,182 Was this wrong place, wrong time? 234 00:11:24,250 --> 00:11:26,117 Was this some sort of hit? 235 00:11:26,186 --> 00:11:29,120 Was it a failed carjacking? 236 00:11:29,189 --> 00:11:31,022 Who would kill this man? 237 00:11:31,091 --> 00:11:33,691 [dramatic music] 238 00:11:33,893 --> 00:11:37,261 - One witness reported that he heard gunshots. 239 00:11:37,330 --> 00:11:38,963 [gunshots firing] 240 00:11:39,032 --> 00:11:40,998 Observed two men running. 241 00:11:41,067 --> 00:11:42,834 - We certainly did not wanna rule out 242 00:11:42,969 --> 00:11:46,036 The possibility that mr. Forrest was targeted. 243 00:11:46,106 --> 00:11:47,505 - The fact that he's a world champion, 244 00:11:47,573 --> 00:11:50,975 We don't know if that's sour grapes to somebody else. 245 00:11:50,977 --> 00:11:52,043 - I remember dropping the phone 246 00:11:52,111 --> 00:11:53,477 And I remember saying like, "no," 247 00:11:53,479 --> 00:11:56,247 Like over and over, like, "no, no (bleep) way." 248 00:11:56,316 --> 00:11:58,282 - Why shoot him when he's down on the ground? 249 00:11:58,351 --> 00:11:59,583 There has to be more. 250 00:11:59,886 --> 00:11:59,950 [dramatic music] 251 00:12:00,051 --> 00:12:09,627 [intense music] 252 00:12:09,696 --> 00:12:12,296 - [narrator] atlanta homicide detectives are on the hunt 253 00:12:12,365 --> 00:12:14,399 For the gunman who brutally killed 254 00:12:14,467 --> 00:12:18,068 38 year old boxing champion, vernon forrest, 255 00:12:18,070 --> 00:12:20,338 Shot outside an apartment complex. 256 00:12:20,406 --> 00:12:22,974 Police are now scouring the neighborhood, 257 00:12:22,976 --> 00:12:25,243 Looking for any eyewitnesses 258 00:12:25,311 --> 00:12:27,345 Who may be able to shed some light 259 00:12:27,413 --> 00:12:30,815 On what happened to this atlanta icon. 260 00:12:30,951 --> 00:12:33,351 - Mechanicsville was certainly a community 261 00:12:33,419 --> 00:12:35,253 That was on the rebound. 262 00:12:35,321 --> 00:12:39,423 The relationship from the late '90s, 263 00:12:39,425 --> 00:12:41,893 Early 2000s was fragmented. 264 00:12:42,028 --> 00:12:44,896 We had a couple of officer involved shootings 265 00:12:45,031 --> 00:12:48,099 That took place in that particular community. 266 00:12:48,167 --> 00:12:50,868 However, we were in the process of repairing 267 00:12:51,004 --> 00:12:54,138 Our relationship with the members of that community. 268 00:12:54,207 --> 00:12:56,440 - So we didn't have an abundance of eyewitnesses 269 00:12:56,509 --> 00:12:58,175 That would come forward, 270 00:12:58,244 --> 00:13:01,312 Even though every apartment there had a balcony 271 00:13:01,381 --> 00:13:03,447 That overlooked the street. 272 00:13:03,449 --> 00:13:06,184 - It became important for me to go into the crowd, 273 00:13:06,252 --> 00:13:07,885 Because there's always someone in the crowd 274 00:13:08,021 --> 00:13:08,853 That saw something. 275 00:13:08,989 --> 00:13:11,122 - [narrator] the detectives' hunch pays off. 276 00:13:11,191 --> 00:13:15,326 They find a few neighborhood onlookers willing to cooperate. 277 00:13:15,395 --> 00:13:18,997 - One witness reported that he heard gunshots 278 00:13:18,999 --> 00:13:22,166 And then looked out, observed two men running, 279 00:13:22,168 --> 00:13:24,536 One wearing a pink shirt chasing another man 280 00:13:24,604 --> 00:13:27,338 Around the building where he lost sight of them. 281 00:13:27,406 --> 00:13:31,075 - It appears that vernon had chased perpetrator down 282 00:13:31,144 --> 00:13:32,377 Into the apartment complex 283 00:13:32,445 --> 00:13:36,647 Where he was observed standing there holding a handgun. 284 00:13:36,649 --> 00:13:38,782 - The witness indicated that he saw a man 285 00:13:38,885 --> 00:13:40,184 Had come out of the apartment building 286 00:13:40,253 --> 00:13:42,052 Where he had been hiding 287 00:13:42,122 --> 00:13:45,689 And flagged down a red passenger vehicle. 288 00:13:45,691 --> 00:13:48,326 - [narrator] another witness from the apartment complex 289 00:13:48,394 --> 00:13:51,095 Tells investigators she saw vernon walk away 290 00:13:51,097 --> 00:13:53,431 From the building, then start arguing 291 00:13:53,499 --> 00:13:56,367 With a different man on the street moments later. 292 00:13:56,436 --> 00:13:59,570 - There was an exchange of words between the two of them 293 00:13:59,639 --> 00:14:03,107 And at some point, as vernon began to turn and walk away 294 00:14:03,176 --> 00:14:05,443 Is when the perpetrator actually shot him 295 00:14:05,511 --> 00:14:06,844 In the back eight times. 296 00:14:07,046 --> 00:14:09,113 [gunshots firing] 297 00:14:09,182 --> 00:14:11,615 This witness was actually able to see 298 00:14:11,617 --> 00:14:14,385 That red vehicle as it pulled up again 299 00:14:14,454 --> 00:14:16,720 And the second assailant getting into the vehicle 300 00:14:16,722 --> 00:14:18,856 And fleeing the scene at that point. 301 00:14:19,058 --> 00:14:21,392 - [narrator] while the witness describes the car as red, 302 00:14:21,461 --> 00:14:24,862 She isn't able to provide the make or model. 303 00:14:25,064 --> 00:14:27,298 - So based on the statements of the witnesses, 304 00:14:27,367 --> 00:14:30,300 We believe that there were at least three people involved 305 00:14:30,302 --> 00:14:32,103 In the actual crime. 306 00:14:32,171 --> 00:14:34,005 First you had the robber, 307 00:14:34,140 --> 00:14:36,940 You have the driver of the red car 308 00:14:37,010 --> 00:14:39,610 And then you have the actual shooter. 309 00:14:40,179 --> 00:14:43,481 To identify the individuals responsible, 310 00:14:43,549 --> 00:14:48,886 We were able to ask for and obtain video surveillance 311 00:14:49,088 --> 00:14:52,023 From the apartment complex and the gas station. 312 00:14:52,458 --> 00:14:54,458 - [narrator] given it'll take several days 313 00:14:54,527 --> 00:14:57,028 Before the security footage is available, 314 00:14:57,163 --> 00:14:59,897 Detectives are still in the dark. 315 00:14:59,966 --> 00:15:02,500 Was this shooting a robbery gone wrong 316 00:15:02,568 --> 00:15:07,038 Or the cold-blooded execution of an atlanta icon? 317 00:15:07,106 --> 00:15:09,040 - You have to look at all possibilities 318 00:15:09,175 --> 00:15:11,509 When you're investigating crimes like this. 319 00:15:11,511 --> 00:15:14,111 We certainly did not wanna rule out the possibility 320 00:15:14,113 --> 00:15:16,547 That mr. Forrest was targeted. 321 00:15:17,116 --> 00:15:18,749 - The fact that he's a world champion, 322 00:15:18,751 --> 00:15:21,052 We don't know if that's sour grapes to somebody else. 323 00:15:21,187 --> 00:15:23,121 If this was a motive that, you know, 324 00:15:23,123 --> 00:15:25,222 If you take vernon forrest out of the boxing game, 325 00:15:25,291 --> 00:15:28,426 Does it give somebody else a chance to move up? 326 00:15:28,494 --> 00:15:31,663 - The next day, law enforcement had to have 327 00:15:31,731 --> 00:15:37,067 The very sad conversation with vernon forrest's mother 328 00:15:37,070 --> 00:15:42,273 And notify her that her baby son had been murdered. 329 00:15:42,342 --> 00:15:44,475 [somber music] 330 00:15:44,544 --> 00:15:46,510 - The family was devastated. 331 00:15:46,512 --> 00:15:48,579 It's always difficult to tell them 332 00:15:48,581 --> 00:15:54,017 The most gruesome details of the event and what happened, 333 00:15:54,153 --> 00:15:55,619 Especially this one, I mean, 334 00:15:55,688 --> 00:15:57,221 Shot in the back this many times. 335 00:15:57,223 --> 00:16:00,091 I can't recall ever seeing that in my career. 336 00:16:00,159 --> 00:16:02,726 The family couldn't say that anybody 337 00:16:02,796 --> 00:16:04,795 Had any beef with vernon forrest, 338 00:16:04,797 --> 00:16:06,697 He didn't ruffle feathers. 339 00:16:06,699 --> 00:16:11,903 He was a true, genuine, decent human being. 340 00:16:12,105 --> 00:16:14,271 [pensive music] 341 00:16:14,340 --> 00:16:17,108 - Vernon forrest was a kid from augusta, georgia, 342 00:16:17,176 --> 00:16:19,443 Just two hours east of the big city, 343 00:16:19,512 --> 00:16:21,712 The sixth of eight children, 344 00:16:21,781 --> 00:16:25,383 A kid who had found a love in boxing. 345 00:16:25,451 --> 00:16:27,451 - He come from a humble background. 346 00:16:27,520 --> 00:16:29,320 He wasn't a rich kid, you know, 347 00:16:29,388 --> 00:16:33,357 He was just a local humble kid from augusta 348 00:16:33,359 --> 00:16:35,593 Who had a talent. 349 00:16:36,296 --> 00:16:39,730 - [narrator] the talented boxer was a four time world champion, 350 00:16:39,799 --> 00:16:41,732 Compiling an impressive record 351 00:16:41,801 --> 00:16:46,137 Of 41 and 3 with 29 knockouts. 352 00:16:46,272 --> 00:16:47,605 - He was a great boxer, 353 00:16:47,673 --> 00:16:50,608 But he was an even greater human being. 354 00:16:51,110 --> 00:16:52,710 - The man was selfless, man, you know. 355 00:16:52,778 --> 00:16:55,346 He put his money where it really counts, 356 00:16:55,414 --> 00:16:57,148 Did a lot for the community. 357 00:16:57,216 --> 00:16:58,716 - Vernon, he was just a confident guy. 358 00:16:58,785 --> 00:17:01,719 He had a good spirit about him. 359 00:17:01,788 --> 00:17:03,120 When I started volunteering 360 00:17:03,256 --> 00:17:05,089 At the police athletic league, 361 00:17:05,157 --> 00:17:07,090 Vernon, he lent his support to us, 362 00:17:07,160 --> 00:17:09,092 Because we're working with at-risk kids. 363 00:17:09,228 --> 00:17:11,129 - He cared about his community. 364 00:17:11,131 --> 00:17:14,032 He tried to help children that had tough beginnings 365 00:17:14,166 --> 00:17:17,135 To see that they could always have a second chance. 366 00:17:18,571 --> 00:17:20,371 - My communication with the family 367 00:17:20,440 --> 00:17:24,007 Is now we need to know where vernon was coming from. 368 00:17:24,077 --> 00:17:26,777 We need to know where he was going to. 369 00:17:26,846 --> 00:17:29,180 Was he meeting somebody? 370 00:17:29,315 --> 00:17:31,315 - [narrator] vernon's family tells detectives 371 00:17:31,384 --> 00:17:33,651 The boxer was out late that night 372 00:17:33,719 --> 00:17:36,387 Visiting family with his godson, ernest, 373 00:17:36,456 --> 00:17:37,821 And was on his way back 374 00:17:37,891 --> 00:17:41,458 To drop the 11 year old off with relatives. 375 00:17:41,527 --> 00:17:44,662 Sussing out if robbery was the motive behind the shooting, 376 00:17:44,730 --> 00:17:46,998 Detectives asked if vernon was wearing 377 00:17:47,200 --> 00:17:51,535 Any distinctive jewelry, items police could trace. 378 00:17:51,537 --> 00:17:55,807 - Vernon had on a gold ring that said "four time champ" 379 00:17:55,875 --> 00:17:59,743 And had on a diamond-studded rolex. 380 00:17:59,745 --> 00:18:01,111 - [detective zimbrick] they were not recovered 381 00:18:01,180 --> 00:18:03,947 When he was discovered in the street. 382 00:18:03,949 --> 00:18:06,149 - We didn't know if they knew who he was, 383 00:18:06,285 --> 00:18:07,919 But we wondered if the suspects 384 00:18:07,987 --> 00:18:11,422 Could have seen the jewelry vernon was wearing 385 00:18:11,491 --> 00:18:15,126 And made it a point to single him out as a potential target. 386 00:18:15,227 --> 00:18:16,660 - [narrator] even though it appears 387 00:18:16,729 --> 00:18:19,963 The killer robbed vernon, investigators have a feeling 388 00:18:19,965 --> 00:18:23,234 There may be more to this gruesome murder. 389 00:18:23,369 --> 00:18:25,136 The execution style shooting 390 00:18:25,171 --> 00:18:29,073 Still leaves several hard questions unanswered. 391 00:18:29,142 --> 00:18:30,942 - The robbery is done. 392 00:18:31,010 --> 00:18:34,645 They got the gold watch and the big gold rings, 393 00:18:34,714 --> 00:18:37,448 So why shoot him in the back 394 00:18:37,517 --> 00:18:39,650 And then shoot him when he is down on the ground? 395 00:18:39,719 --> 00:18:40,751 [gunshots firing] 396 00:18:40,820 --> 00:18:42,386 There has to be more. 397 00:18:42,654 --> 00:18:48,525 [intense music] 398 00:18:48,526 --> 00:18:54,397 - [reporter] emotions are raw over the sudden loss 399 00:18:54,400 --> 00:18:57,701 Of legendary boxer vernon forrest. 400 00:18:57,703 --> 00:18:58,836 - [narrator] news of boxing great, 401 00:18:58,905 --> 00:19:02,806 Vernon forrest's grisly murder immediately hits the press, 402 00:19:02,875 --> 00:19:06,143 Stunning the city of atlanta and the world. 403 00:19:06,246 --> 00:19:07,712 - [reporter] Monday morning, atf agents 404 00:19:07,780 --> 00:19:09,347 In fulton county sheriff canine units 405 00:19:09,481 --> 00:19:11,516 Scoured the area where forrest was murdered. 406 00:19:13,052 --> 00:19:16,687 - [narrator] the homicide team is already feeling the heat. 407 00:19:16,755 --> 00:19:18,756 - Shortly after this murder occurred, 408 00:19:18,824 --> 00:19:22,426 I started receiving calls from our mayor at the time, 409 00:19:22,495 --> 00:19:24,594 City council members at the time 410 00:19:24,596 --> 00:19:27,564 And media literally from all over the world 411 00:19:27,633 --> 00:19:30,701 Wanting to know where we were with the investigation. 412 00:19:30,770 --> 00:19:32,836 - It was all over the news 413 00:19:32,838 --> 00:19:35,439 And we were covering it wall-to-wall, 414 00:19:35,508 --> 00:19:38,309 Because initially we had no idea 415 00:19:38,444 --> 00:19:40,378 Who had perpetrated this crime. 416 00:19:41,547 --> 00:19:42,746 - We was trying to figure out, 417 00:19:42,748 --> 00:19:45,449 How could this happen to a guy like him? 418 00:19:45,451 --> 00:19:47,918 - I remember dropping the phone and I remember saying like, 419 00:19:47,987 --> 00:19:51,188 "no," like over and over, like, "no, no (bleep) way." 420 00:19:51,324 --> 00:19:53,457 I kinda blacked out on things. 421 00:19:53,526 --> 00:19:55,559 [suspenseful music] 422 00:19:55,561 --> 00:19:58,996 - This case really involved a whole lot more 423 00:19:59,064 --> 00:20:01,265 Than just a simple robbery. 424 00:20:01,334 --> 00:20:03,401 Investigators realized that they would 425 00:20:03,403 --> 00:20:09,273 Really have to dig deep in order to get at the reason 426 00:20:09,475 --> 00:20:14,478 And the motivation for such a senseless murder like this. 427 00:20:14,480 --> 00:20:16,514 [gunshots firing] 428 00:20:16,648 --> 00:20:20,818 - Vernon had on a gold ring, gave that over, 429 00:20:20,886 --> 00:20:24,922 Had on a diamond-studded rolex, gave that over. 430 00:20:24,990 --> 00:20:28,225 It was a very loud question of why. 431 00:20:28,394 --> 00:20:30,093 Did you have to kill him too? 432 00:20:30,095 --> 00:20:32,964 - [narrator] investigators work the few leads they do have 433 00:20:33,032 --> 00:20:35,132 And try to track down the red car 434 00:20:35,201 --> 00:20:38,502 Seen leaving the scene of the crime. 435 00:20:38,637 --> 00:20:40,904 - The description given out over the radio 436 00:20:40,973 --> 00:20:42,906 Was basically a red sedan. 437 00:20:42,975 --> 00:20:46,577 We then later on checked the database 438 00:20:46,645 --> 00:20:50,581 For any stolen vehicles that were un-recovered 439 00:20:50,650 --> 00:20:52,850 And there were no positive hits 440 00:20:52,918 --> 00:20:55,052 For a red sedan. 441 00:20:55,588 --> 00:20:58,455 - [narrator] undeterred, the team pushes forward, 442 00:20:58,457 --> 00:21:02,193 Taking a closer look at vernon's past associations. 443 00:21:02,928 --> 00:21:05,462 - We want to try to find out if there are people 444 00:21:05,464 --> 00:21:07,531 That actually have vendettas against him 445 00:21:07,600 --> 00:21:11,068 And so we decided at that point that I would go and meet 446 00:21:11,136 --> 00:21:15,205 With mr. Forrest's business manager, charles watson. 447 00:21:15,875 --> 00:21:19,076 - Once law enforcement speaks with charles watson, 448 00:21:19,144 --> 00:21:21,545 They find out that vernon forrest 449 00:21:21,680 --> 00:21:24,648 Doesn't have any nefarious business dealings. 450 00:21:24,717 --> 00:21:26,650 - All of that information was important for us 451 00:21:26,719 --> 00:21:29,420 To develop so that we could eliminate possibilities. 452 00:21:29,422 --> 00:21:33,023 - The information that meadows got from vernon's manager 453 00:21:33,092 --> 00:21:36,827 Was in reference to the charitable events 454 00:21:36,896 --> 00:21:38,896 That vernon partook in 455 00:21:38,964 --> 00:21:42,132 That further solidified that vernon was a great boxer, 456 00:21:42,201 --> 00:21:45,102 But more importantly a decent human being. 457 00:21:45,170 --> 00:21:47,571 - Mr. Watson was able to provide 458 00:21:47,706 --> 00:21:49,573 All of mr. Forrest's known associates 459 00:21:49,575 --> 00:21:52,042 And we were able to talk to some of his friends, 460 00:21:52,110 --> 00:21:55,879 Like xavier toliver, one of vernon's closest friends. 461 00:21:55,948 --> 00:21:59,216 We wanted to get some clues and leads in the case. 462 00:21:59,284 --> 00:22:00,517 They couldn't think of anyone 463 00:22:00,653 --> 00:22:02,787 That would want to harm mr. Forrest. 464 00:22:02,855 --> 00:22:04,055 - He didn't have any enemies. 465 00:22:04,123 --> 00:22:06,824 Again, he was a good guy. 466 00:22:06,826 --> 00:22:10,193 - He always was looking out for all of us, 467 00:22:10,195 --> 00:22:13,931 Somebody who saw the need and they meet the need. 468 00:22:13,999 --> 00:22:16,867 - He created a a not-for-profit organization 469 00:22:16,936 --> 00:22:18,669 Called destiny's child, 470 00:22:18,737 --> 00:22:23,106 Which helped to create housing for autistic individuals 471 00:22:23,176 --> 00:22:26,009 Or people who were living with different types 472 00:22:26,078 --> 00:22:29,146 Of psychological, emotional, and physical disabilities. 473 00:22:29,214 --> 00:22:31,815 - The most I rewarding thing that I get is 474 00:22:31,884 --> 00:22:34,551 When they feel a sense of accomplishment. 475 00:22:34,687 --> 00:22:35,819 - Atlanta embraced him. 476 00:22:35,888 --> 00:22:37,888 The mayor gave him the keys to the city. 477 00:22:37,957 --> 00:22:40,658 [gentle music] 478 00:22:40,726 --> 00:22:42,125 - After law enforcement had the opportunity 479 00:22:42,195 --> 00:22:43,694 To speak with vernon forrest's 480 00:22:43,762 --> 00:22:46,630 Close friends and family members, 481 00:22:46,632 --> 00:22:47,964 Police really had no leads. 482 00:22:48,034 --> 00:22:50,367 This investigation was going nowhere. 483 00:22:50,936 --> 00:22:53,170 - [narrator] with no viable suspects, 484 00:22:53,238 --> 00:22:55,238 Detectives are at a loss. 485 00:22:55,240 --> 00:22:58,175 But 72 hours into the investigation, 486 00:22:58,243 --> 00:22:59,976 They catch a break. 487 00:22:59,978 --> 00:23:02,045 The surveillance footage from the gas station 488 00:23:02,114 --> 00:23:04,848 And apartment complex is in. 489 00:23:04,850 --> 00:23:07,050 - One of the things that law enforcement officers 490 00:23:07,119 --> 00:23:09,252 Always get very, very excited about 491 00:23:09,254 --> 00:23:11,522 Is when there is video cameras 492 00:23:11,657 --> 00:23:15,659 That could have potentially not only captured the crime, 493 00:23:15,794 --> 00:23:18,929 But also can identify the perpetrators themselves. 494 00:23:20,733 --> 00:23:23,800 - The video at the gas station is definitely dark 495 00:23:23,869 --> 00:23:26,603 In the corner where the air compressor was 496 00:23:26,739 --> 00:23:28,205 That vernon was robbed. 497 00:23:28,273 --> 00:23:29,907 So we're able to see figures, 498 00:23:29,975 --> 00:23:35,246 But we're not able to identify individuals with that camera. 499 00:23:35,581 --> 00:23:36,981 - Because the surveillance video 500 00:23:37,049 --> 00:23:39,917 From the gas station was hard to see, 501 00:23:39,919 --> 00:23:45,823 The apartment complex video proved to be key and critical. 502 00:23:45,891 --> 00:23:48,892 - The cameras at the apartment complex 503 00:23:48,961 --> 00:23:53,964 Are crisp, new, and are very good quality pictures. 504 00:23:54,033 --> 00:23:57,701 We're concentrating initially on the camera view 505 00:23:57,703 --> 00:24:02,573 That is shot from inside of the stairwell of the apartment 506 00:24:02,608 --> 00:24:06,643 And you can see out into the courtyard and to the street, 507 00:24:06,645 --> 00:24:10,114 And that video shows us an individual run past 508 00:24:10,182 --> 00:24:14,517 The front door of this stairwell close to the door 509 00:24:15,154 --> 00:24:18,121 And then just a few seconds, two or three seconds later, 510 00:24:18,190 --> 00:24:21,091 We believe we see vernon forrest run past the door 511 00:24:21,160 --> 00:24:23,226 And then we continue to watch 512 00:24:23,228 --> 00:24:25,796 To see if we see anybody coming back. 513 00:24:25,798 --> 00:24:28,799 - [narrator] the video then reveals an agitated man 514 00:24:28,868 --> 00:24:31,035 Entering the building, holding a gun, 515 00:24:31,103 --> 00:24:34,805 Exactly as witnesses described earlier to detectives. 516 00:24:34,874 --> 00:24:37,474 - And then faces the camera, looks right up at the camera. 517 00:24:37,743 --> 00:24:40,077 [dramatic music] 518 00:24:40,145 --> 00:24:42,646 - When we see him look up at the camera, we're like, 519 00:24:42,782 --> 00:24:44,214 "man, that was a great shot." 520 00:24:44,283 --> 00:24:46,250 - [narrator] with this surveillance video, 521 00:24:46,318 --> 00:24:49,920 Detectives are one step closer to identifying one 522 00:24:49,989 --> 00:24:54,224 Of the three suspects involved in vernon forrest's death, 523 00:24:54,293 --> 00:24:58,095 The robber, the getaway driver, and the shooter. 524 00:24:58,163 --> 00:25:01,298 - It's like, damn, that's the guy. 525 00:25:01,366 --> 00:25:03,100 The robber from the gas station, 526 00:25:03,168 --> 00:25:05,769 That's the man we need to identify. 527 00:25:05,838 --> 00:25:07,638 That's the key to this whole thing. 528 00:25:07,773 --> 00:25:07,838 [dramatic music] 529 00:25:08,106 --> 00:25:19,884 - [narrator] three days after boxing hero vernon forrest 530 00:25:22,354 --> 00:25:23,921 Was violently gunned down 531 00:25:23,989 --> 00:25:26,757 Outside an atlanta apartment complex, 532 00:25:26,759 --> 00:25:28,559 Homicide detectives get word 533 00:25:28,761 --> 00:25:31,762 The surveillance footage from the building is in. 534 00:25:31,764 --> 00:25:33,697 To investigators' astonishment, 535 00:25:33,699 --> 00:25:38,001 The security cam video reveals a key piece of evidence, 536 00:25:38,003 --> 00:25:41,004 The face of one of the assailants. 537 00:25:41,073 --> 00:25:46,943 - The apartment complex video proved to be key and critical, 538 00:25:47,012 --> 00:25:50,581 Because that video, you could actually see 539 00:25:50,783 --> 00:25:55,152 A person of interest actually look dead into the camera. 540 00:25:55,655 --> 00:25:57,053 - They turn and look at the camera, 541 00:25:57,123 --> 00:25:58,822 And then they turn back and look outside, 542 00:25:58,824 --> 00:26:00,824 And then they jump in that car, 543 00:26:00,893 --> 00:26:04,227 And it's the red car as ascribed by several of the witnesses 544 00:26:04,296 --> 00:26:07,064 As being directly involved. 545 00:26:07,132 --> 00:26:08,432 So at that point it's like, 546 00:26:08,500 --> 00:26:11,368 Wow, this isn't a witness to the event, 547 00:26:11,436 --> 00:26:13,570 This is the person that vernon was chasing. 548 00:26:13,839 --> 00:26:15,772 We need somebody to tell us who this is. 549 00:26:15,908 --> 00:26:17,941 [suspenseful music] 550 00:26:18,009 --> 00:26:20,077 - Once the atlanta police department view 551 00:26:20,145 --> 00:26:22,245 The video footage in this case, 552 00:26:22,247 --> 00:26:25,715 They made the decision to enlist the cooperation 553 00:26:25,718 --> 00:26:29,319 Of the media in showing this video footage 554 00:26:29,388 --> 00:26:32,255 To the general public in hopes that they would be able 555 00:26:32,324 --> 00:26:34,925 To identify any potential suspects 556 00:26:34,994 --> 00:26:37,695 That were captured on the video. 557 00:26:37,763 --> 00:26:41,998 - We hoped that somebody would be decent enough to call in 558 00:26:42,067 --> 00:26:43,200 And identify the individual. 559 00:26:43,268 --> 00:26:45,369 [tense music] 560 00:26:45,437 --> 00:26:47,270 - When the community heard 561 00:26:47,272 --> 00:26:51,141 Some of the details about this case, they were outraged 562 00:26:51,210 --> 00:26:52,876 And they let atlanta police know 563 00:26:53,011 --> 00:26:55,679 That they wanted these killers off the streets. 564 00:26:55,881 --> 00:27:00,351 - It's a big loss and you know, the city needs to make sure 565 00:27:00,419 --> 00:27:03,820 They find the guys that were behind this. 566 00:27:03,956 --> 00:27:07,157 - You shoot a man in the back, you know, you a coward, man, 567 00:27:07,226 --> 00:27:10,093 And so I wouldn't mind having some face time 568 00:27:10,095 --> 00:27:11,428 With (indistinct). 569 00:27:11,496 --> 00:27:14,664 - [narrator] on August 4th, 2009, 570 00:27:14,734 --> 00:27:17,935 Nine days after vernon forrest was slain, 571 00:27:18,003 --> 00:27:21,905 His family and friends gathered to say their goodbyes 572 00:27:21,907 --> 00:27:24,441 To the world champion boxer. 573 00:27:25,043 --> 00:27:28,111 - It was an emotional day, it was a sad day. 574 00:27:28,180 --> 00:27:29,413 It was crowded. 575 00:27:29,481 --> 00:27:31,247 So a lot of boxers, a lot of coaches, 576 00:27:31,249 --> 00:27:34,451 A lot of the georgia amateur boxing association family 577 00:27:34,519 --> 00:27:36,120 Was there. 578 00:27:36,188 --> 00:27:37,888 Evander holyfield was there. 579 00:27:37,890 --> 00:27:40,390 - The world wasn't ready for us to lose vernon forrest. 580 00:27:40,459 --> 00:27:42,859 Yeah, he meant a lot to a lot of people, man. 581 00:27:42,861 --> 00:27:45,996 - I just remember just going and you know, of course, 582 00:27:46,065 --> 00:27:49,532 Showing my respects to vernon for the last time. 583 00:27:49,602 --> 00:27:53,203 It was just a pretty sad situation, a sad time. 584 00:27:53,271 --> 00:27:55,406 - It was a rough day for me, man. 585 00:27:55,474 --> 00:28:01,745 I remember having to leave out for a minute to get some air. 586 00:28:02,514 --> 00:28:03,747 That was vernon in there, 587 00:28:03,815 --> 00:28:08,885 But it didn't particulary, didn't really look like vernon. 588 00:28:08,887 --> 00:28:11,055 [somber music] 589 00:28:12,157 --> 00:28:13,290 - I believe in god. 590 00:28:14,493 --> 00:28:16,559 I believe in the justice system 591 00:28:17,162 --> 00:28:20,264 And we want justice served to the fullest. 592 00:28:21,367 --> 00:28:22,332 - [narrator] as vernon's family 593 00:28:22,401 --> 00:28:25,269 And friends mourn over their loss, 594 00:28:25,337 --> 00:28:29,139 The media blast sets off a flurry of calls. 595 00:28:29,208 --> 00:28:32,175 - As a result of the releasing of the video footage, 596 00:28:32,244 --> 00:28:36,046 Law enforcement received hundreds if not thousands 597 00:28:36,115 --> 00:28:39,449 Of potential tips seeking to identify 598 00:28:39,517 --> 00:28:42,185 The individual that was shown in the video. 599 00:28:42,187 --> 00:28:45,055 - [narrator] one tipster who says they know the suspect 600 00:28:45,124 --> 00:28:47,324 But asked to remain anonymous, 601 00:28:47,392 --> 00:28:49,860 Goes beyond calling the police. 602 00:28:49,995 --> 00:28:52,329 - Somebody actually walked into 603 00:28:52,397 --> 00:28:54,731 One of the many precincts in the city 604 00:28:54,867 --> 00:28:58,268 With a picture on their phone 605 00:28:58,337 --> 00:29:00,337 With the individual that had been pictured 606 00:29:00,405 --> 00:29:02,472 To prove that they knew what they were talking about 607 00:29:02,541 --> 00:29:04,475 Who this individual was. 608 00:29:04,543 --> 00:29:06,543 So having that information, 609 00:29:06,611 --> 00:29:09,079 We immediately go to the database 610 00:29:09,148 --> 00:29:10,547 That we have available to us. 611 00:29:10,615 --> 00:29:12,483 We're able to identify a picture 612 00:29:12,551 --> 00:29:16,019 Based on the name and date of birth that was given to us. 613 00:29:16,021 --> 00:29:18,355 - Ultimately, law enforcement was able 614 00:29:18,423 --> 00:29:22,292 To identify that individual on the surveillance footage 615 00:29:22,361 --> 00:29:25,328 As 20 year old demario ware. 616 00:29:25,330 --> 00:29:27,564 They do a deep dive into his background 617 00:29:27,632 --> 00:29:30,734 And learn that he has a long and checkered history 618 00:29:30,870 --> 00:29:34,571 Of contacts with law enforcement. 619 00:29:35,173 --> 00:29:38,575 - But the criminal history that we saw of demario ware 620 00:29:38,643 --> 00:29:40,443 Was not indicative of an individual 621 00:29:40,512 --> 00:29:43,513 That would shoot another individual 622 00:29:43,582 --> 00:29:44,647 Multiple times in the back. 623 00:29:44,717 --> 00:29:48,084 He just didn't have that kind of a criminal history. 624 00:29:48,153 --> 00:29:49,986 We believed that demario was with the shooter 625 00:29:50,122 --> 00:29:52,322 That night at the gas station. 626 00:29:52,391 --> 00:29:55,258 We didn't have a warrant for demario ware. 627 00:29:55,327 --> 00:29:59,396 We knew that he was probably good for the robbery, 628 00:29:59,798 --> 00:30:02,399 But we knew he was not good for the murder. 629 00:30:02,467 --> 00:30:05,335 So we wanted to go out and get his perspective, 630 00:30:05,404 --> 00:30:06,603 His side of the story. 631 00:30:06,671 --> 00:30:08,538 - They're hoping that demario 632 00:30:08,607 --> 00:30:12,142 Would be able to provide some context to motive. 633 00:30:12,144 --> 00:30:14,411 Did you know vernon forrest? 634 00:30:14,413 --> 00:30:15,479 What was this about? 635 00:30:15,547 --> 00:30:18,015 [dramatic music] 636 00:30:20,419 --> 00:30:23,420 - We were obviously eager to hear his story. 637 00:30:28,226 --> 00:30:30,226 - Finally, law enforcement hoped to find out 638 00:30:30,295 --> 00:30:33,964 Why vernon was shot eight times in the back 639 00:30:34,099 --> 00:30:35,298 While walking away. 640 00:30:35,367 --> 00:30:36,633 [gunshot firing] 641 00:30:37,034 --> 00:30:42,605 [suspenseful music] 642 00:30:42,606 --> 00:30:48,177 - [narrator] atlanta homicide detectives have identified 643 00:30:48,246 --> 00:30:51,081 One of the suspects in the brutal murder 644 00:30:51,149 --> 00:30:53,650 Of boxing champion vernon forrest. 645 00:30:53,718 --> 00:30:55,552 Investigators are now on the hunt 646 00:30:55,621 --> 00:30:58,321 For 20-year-old demario ware, 647 00:30:58,390 --> 00:31:00,991 The man they believe robbed at gunpoint 648 00:31:00,993 --> 00:31:04,127 The atlanta icon of his championship ring 649 00:31:04,129 --> 00:31:07,164 And multi-thousand dollar rolex watch. 650 00:31:07,232 --> 00:31:10,667 - Detectives discover that his last known address 651 00:31:10,735 --> 00:31:13,970 Is with his grandmother rose watson. 652 00:31:14,106 --> 00:31:17,340 - So we went to that location in southeast atlanta, 653 00:31:17,342 --> 00:31:19,109 Which was probably less than a mile 654 00:31:19,244 --> 00:31:21,411 From the actual shooting scene. 655 00:31:21,480 --> 00:31:23,513 His grandmother knew why we were there. 656 00:31:23,581 --> 00:31:26,549 His picture from video surveillance is on tv. 657 00:31:26,551 --> 00:31:28,118 She said demario was a good kid, 658 00:31:28,186 --> 00:31:29,652 That he had his bumps and bruises, 659 00:31:29,722 --> 00:31:32,955 But he wasn't a vicious killer. 660 00:31:32,992 --> 00:31:34,424 - Days after the murder, 661 00:31:34,493 --> 00:31:39,162 He told the grandmother that he was involved with the crime. 662 00:31:39,230 --> 00:31:41,965 Then she says he's gonna have to own up to it 663 00:31:42,034 --> 00:31:44,300 And he's gonna have to pay the price 664 00:31:44,369 --> 00:31:47,170 Of whatever crime he may have been involved in. 665 00:31:48,507 --> 00:31:52,275 - We advised his grandmother to ask demario 666 00:31:52,344 --> 00:31:54,878 To come to the office for us to meet up with him. 667 00:31:55,147 --> 00:31:56,647 She indicated that she would do her best 668 00:31:56,715 --> 00:31:58,515 To convince him to come in. 669 00:32:00,052 --> 00:32:01,451 - [narrator] the following day, 670 00:32:01,520 --> 00:32:05,188 Demario ware makes good on his promise to his grandmother. 671 00:32:05,590 --> 00:32:09,526 - Demario ware and his attorney show up at our office. 672 00:32:09,594 --> 00:32:12,996 We were obviously eager to hear his story. 673 00:32:21,573 --> 00:32:25,408 Demario said that he and two guys are at the gas station 674 00:32:25,410 --> 00:32:27,810 Waiting for a couple of other individuals to show up. 675 00:32:27,812 --> 00:32:29,412 They were gonna go to a club. 676 00:32:29,414 --> 00:32:32,482 They see the jaguar pull to the parking lot. 677 00:32:48,500 --> 00:32:50,267 - [narrator] demario tells detectives 678 00:32:50,335 --> 00:32:53,269 That's when he and his two friends decided 679 00:32:53,271 --> 00:32:55,238 To put their plan into action. 680 00:33:18,597 --> 00:33:21,264 - Demario indicates to law enforcement 681 00:33:21,266 --> 00:33:22,565 That he took off running 682 00:33:22,567 --> 00:33:25,702 In the direction of the apartment complex. 683 00:33:26,271 --> 00:33:30,240 Vernon then took off pursuing him. 684 00:33:39,784 --> 00:33:41,651 - Demario says says he then works his way 685 00:33:41,653 --> 00:33:42,386 To the front of the building 686 00:33:42,454 --> 00:33:44,454 And that's where we see him on the video 687 00:33:44,523 --> 00:33:46,556 Sprinting out the door and jumping in the car. 688 00:33:54,466 --> 00:33:57,167 - [narrator] knowing multiple perpetrators are involved, 689 00:33:57,302 --> 00:34:00,770 Investigators ask demario about his accomplices, 690 00:34:00,839 --> 00:34:02,639 But there's a hitch. 691 00:34:02,707 --> 00:34:05,441 - During our interview with demario ware, 692 00:34:05,510 --> 00:34:07,343 He wasn't able to give us the actual names 693 00:34:07,412 --> 00:34:09,346 Of some of the individuals involved, 694 00:34:09,414 --> 00:34:11,248 But he was able to give us nicknames. 695 00:34:19,891 --> 00:34:21,525 - [narrator] visibly shaken, 696 00:34:21,593 --> 00:34:24,795 Demario explains what happened after he left the building 697 00:34:24,863 --> 00:34:26,463 And jumped in the vehicle. 698 00:34:38,943 --> 00:34:40,477 - Once demario finishes his statement, 699 00:34:40,545 --> 00:34:44,881 We still haven't figured out why the shooting takes place, 700 00:34:44,949 --> 00:34:46,783 But he is taken into custody for the robbery. 701 00:34:46,852 --> 00:34:48,952 [pensive music] 702 00:34:49,020 --> 00:34:52,689 The information that we obtained was good. 703 00:34:52,757 --> 00:34:55,858 He identifies the two occupants of the red car 704 00:34:55,928 --> 00:34:59,562 At the time of the robbery and the planning of the robbery. 705 00:34:59,564 --> 00:35:01,697 - [narrator] with one suspect behind bars, 706 00:35:01,767 --> 00:35:03,966 Investigators quickly drill down 707 00:35:03,968 --> 00:35:07,704 On finding the getaway driver and the trigger man. 708 00:35:07,772 --> 00:35:09,239 - Through our nickname database, 709 00:35:09,374 --> 00:35:12,209 We look for individuals to see if we can come up 710 00:35:12,344 --> 00:35:14,777 With the individual's actual name. 711 00:35:14,779 --> 00:35:18,347 - We are confident in quante, the driver of the vehicle, 712 00:35:18,483 --> 00:35:20,316 As being jquante crews. 713 00:35:20,452 --> 00:35:22,919 Once demario gets identified, 714 00:35:22,987 --> 00:35:24,987 Then we look at his phone records. 715 00:35:24,989 --> 00:35:26,923 Jquante's phone number is there 716 00:35:26,991 --> 00:35:29,525 The night of the murder and the robbery. 717 00:35:29,527 --> 00:35:32,595 So a warrant is issued for jquante crews. 718 00:35:32,664 --> 00:35:35,398 We provide that warrant to the regional taskforce 719 00:35:35,400 --> 00:35:36,799 Of the us marshal's office 720 00:35:36,801 --> 00:35:39,402 Whose job it is to go out and track fugitives. 721 00:35:39,404 --> 00:35:40,604 [camera clicking] 722 00:35:40,606 --> 00:35:43,606 The next day, he is taken into custody 723 00:35:43,675 --> 00:35:47,343 At his brother's house without incident. 724 00:35:47,345 --> 00:35:49,111 He doesn't wish to speak to the police at all 725 00:35:49,113 --> 00:35:51,014 And he is transported to the fulton county jail, 726 00:35:51,082 --> 00:35:54,751 Charged with an array of crimes. 727 00:35:54,819 --> 00:35:58,155 - [narrator] with getaway driver jquante crews in custody, 728 00:35:58,290 --> 00:36:00,156 Investigators turn their attention 729 00:36:00,425 --> 00:36:03,626 To identifying the alleged shooter, twin. 730 00:36:03,695 --> 00:36:06,295 The nickname database turns up nothing, 731 00:36:06,298 --> 00:36:09,432 But for one of the us marshals assigned to the case, 732 00:36:09,567 --> 00:36:12,435 The unusual moniker rings a bell. 733 00:36:12,437 --> 00:36:14,904 - He says, "well, I know a guy named twin," 734 00:36:14,973 --> 00:36:18,508 And gives us his name of raymon sinkfield. 735 00:36:18,576 --> 00:36:21,043 I'm able to discover that raymon sinkfield 736 00:36:21,045 --> 00:36:22,512 Is actually in federal custody 737 00:36:22,581 --> 00:36:24,981 And was at the time of the shooting. 738 00:36:25,049 --> 00:36:27,617 One of the other sergeants in the office says, 739 00:36:27,686 --> 00:36:33,123 "well, I know raymon's brother, twin, is charmon sinkfield." 740 00:36:33,525 --> 00:36:36,793 Charmon sinkfield is not in custody at the time. 741 00:36:36,861 --> 00:36:40,663 - Law enforcement discover that he had several arrests 742 00:36:40,732 --> 00:36:42,766 For very violent crimes. 743 00:36:43,768 --> 00:36:45,835 - So to get charmon's picture, 744 00:36:45,904 --> 00:36:49,639 I put together a lineup with charmon sinkfield in it. 745 00:36:49,707 --> 00:36:53,610 Demario ware immediately identifies charmon sinkfield 746 00:36:53,678 --> 00:36:56,913 As twin, as the individual that is responsible 747 00:36:56,981 --> 00:36:59,682 For the shooting death of vernon forrest. 748 00:36:59,751 --> 00:37:02,352 [tense music] 749 00:37:02,487 --> 00:37:03,686 - [narrator] nearly three weeks 750 00:37:03,755 --> 00:37:06,989 After famed boxer vernon forrest was slain, 751 00:37:06,991 --> 00:37:09,625 Detectives track down his alleged killer 752 00:37:09,694 --> 00:37:12,362 At his home in northwest atlanta. 753 00:37:12,364 --> 00:37:14,964 - He was taken into custody for the outstanding warrants 754 00:37:15,032 --> 00:37:18,301 And transported to the atlanta homicide office. 755 00:37:25,443 --> 00:37:28,845 - Finally, law enforcement hoped to find out details 756 00:37:28,913 --> 00:37:31,614 About why mr. Sinkfield would choose 757 00:37:31,616 --> 00:37:34,717 To shoot vernon eight times in the back 758 00:37:34,786 --> 00:37:36,786 While he was defenseless and walking away. 759 00:37:36,855 --> 00:37:36,919 [dramatic music] 760 00:37:37,021 --> 00:37:47,030 [intense music] 761 00:37:51,670 --> 00:37:54,003 - [narrator] atlanta police have just arrested 762 00:37:54,071 --> 00:37:56,672 Charmon sinkfield, the alleged trigger man 763 00:37:56,741 --> 00:37:58,674 Responsible for the brutal murder 764 00:37:58,743 --> 00:38:01,711 Of boxing champion vernon forrest. 765 00:38:01,780 --> 00:38:04,847 Detectives are hoping sinkfield will come clean 766 00:38:04,849 --> 00:38:08,718 And tell them why he killed the famed boxer. 767 00:38:23,768 --> 00:38:25,802 - He never confessed to the crime itself. 768 00:38:25,870 --> 00:38:28,003 [suspenseful music] 769 00:38:28,073 --> 00:38:30,006 - Later in speaking with charmon sinkfield 770 00:38:30,074 --> 00:38:33,709 About the reason why so many shots to the back, 771 00:38:33,778 --> 00:38:37,079 He believed that it was wrong for vernon forrest 772 00:38:37,149 --> 00:38:40,049 To challenge the robbery 773 00:38:40,585 --> 00:38:44,520 And leaving ernest in the parking lot alone. 774 00:38:44,656 --> 00:38:45,888 Charmon indicated to me 775 00:38:45,957 --> 00:38:48,991 That he made that statement to vernon 776 00:38:49,060 --> 00:38:51,661 And vernon at that point turned his back on him 777 00:38:51,730 --> 00:38:53,663 And that angered him even more 778 00:38:53,731 --> 00:38:56,866 As a sign of disrespect by vernon forrest, 779 00:38:56,935 --> 00:39:00,536 And for whatever reason, sinkfield felt the rage 780 00:39:00,672 --> 00:39:02,171 And fired that gun. 781 00:39:02,240 --> 00:39:05,041 [dramatic music] [gunshots firing] 782 00:39:09,080 --> 00:39:12,048 That sudden rage, anger, that to me is, 783 00:39:12,117 --> 00:39:14,050 I can't wrap my head around it. 784 00:39:15,954 --> 00:39:17,820 Search warrants were obtained for locations 785 00:39:17,822 --> 00:39:23,026 That the individuals that were arrested had access to. 786 00:39:23,094 --> 00:39:25,762 We were unsuccessful in finding any of the weapons 787 00:39:25,830 --> 00:39:27,030 Or any of the jewelry. 788 00:39:28,166 --> 00:39:29,765 - Finally, the community, 789 00:39:29,834 --> 00:39:32,234 They were breathing a bit easier again, 790 00:39:32,236 --> 00:39:34,904 Because they knew that together, 791 00:39:34,973 --> 00:39:38,041 Law enforcement and the da's office, 792 00:39:38,109 --> 00:39:40,677 They got these killers off the street. 793 00:39:40,745 --> 00:39:43,646 - [narrator] on August 25th, 2009, 794 00:39:43,715 --> 00:39:46,449 One month after the brutal shooting, 795 00:39:46,651 --> 00:39:50,587 Demario ware, jquante crews, and charmon sinkfield 796 00:39:50,589 --> 00:39:53,590 Are each indicted for the robbery and murder 797 00:39:53,658 --> 00:39:57,059 Of boxing great vernon forrest. 798 00:39:57,128 --> 00:39:58,294 - In the state of georgia, 799 00:39:58,362 --> 00:40:01,197 The law allows for the conviction 800 00:40:01,265 --> 00:40:05,735 Of parties who participate, encourage, 801 00:40:05,804 --> 00:40:08,738 Assist in the commission of a crime, 802 00:40:08,807 --> 00:40:10,006 Even if they are not the ones 803 00:40:10,074 --> 00:40:14,243 Who actually pull the trigger and commit the murder itself. 804 00:40:14,312 --> 00:40:16,045 The surveillance footage, 805 00:40:16,047 --> 00:40:18,681 Combined with the ballistics evidence 806 00:40:18,816 --> 00:40:21,918 And then the subsequent confession by demario ware, 807 00:40:21,986 --> 00:40:24,554 Makes this almost an airtight case 808 00:40:24,689 --> 00:40:27,056 And one in which no prosecutor 809 00:40:27,125 --> 00:40:30,159 Would ever want to make the mistake of losing. 810 00:40:30,228 --> 00:40:31,994 [suspenseful music] 811 00:40:32,063 --> 00:40:34,630 - Fulton county district attorney's office was dogged 812 00:40:34,766 --> 00:40:38,501 About making sure that these killers met justice. 813 00:40:40,004 --> 00:40:43,873 - Ultimately, these cases all individually went to trial. 814 00:40:43,941 --> 00:40:45,708 - [narrator] in 2011, 815 00:40:45,776 --> 00:40:49,111 Two years after vernon forrest was killed, 816 00:40:49,113 --> 00:40:52,515 Demario ware was convicted of felony murder. 817 00:40:52,717 --> 00:40:53,883 The following year, 818 00:40:53,951 --> 00:40:58,254 Jquante crews was also found guilty of felony murder. 819 00:40:58,322 --> 00:41:02,658 - Both mr. Ware and mr. Crews received life sentences 820 00:41:02,794 --> 00:41:05,828 With the possibility of parole. 821 00:41:05,896 --> 00:41:08,231 - Due to just the volume of cases 822 00:41:08,299 --> 00:41:11,000 That fulton county prosecutors are dealing with, 823 00:41:11,069 --> 00:41:16,472 It took seven full years into 2016 before charmon sinkfield 824 00:41:16,741 --> 00:41:20,810 Was able to be prosecuted and sentenced. 825 00:41:20,878 --> 00:41:23,746 - Mr. Sinkfield was convicted of all charges 826 00:41:23,881 --> 00:41:25,748 And received a life sentence 827 00:41:25,750 --> 00:41:28,618 With a term of years stacked on top of that 828 00:41:28,753 --> 00:41:32,889 To run consecutive in effect, a virtual death sentence. 829 00:41:34,759 --> 00:41:36,158 - I was very happy, but it still didn't 830 00:41:36,227 --> 00:41:37,760 Bring vernon back, you know? 831 00:41:37,895 --> 00:41:44,166 What it did was, it left a hole in our community. 832 00:41:44,769 --> 00:41:48,004 - Demario ware was the type of young brother 833 00:41:48,072 --> 00:41:50,506 That vernon forrest would try to help 834 00:41:50,642 --> 00:41:54,210 And so it was really sad. 835 00:41:54,278 --> 00:41:56,779 - The murder of vernon forrest struck 836 00:41:56,781 --> 00:41:59,048 At the heart of so many people in the community, 837 00:41:59,117 --> 00:42:00,716 Because he was willing to come back 838 00:42:00,852 --> 00:42:02,852 And give back to his community 839 00:42:02,921 --> 00:42:06,255 And ultimately, it was his community 840 00:42:06,324 --> 00:42:08,791 That brought about his demise, 841 00:42:08,793 --> 00:42:11,927 And so that leaves many people heartbroken. 842 00:42:11,996 --> 00:42:13,762 [somber music] 843 00:42:13,764 --> 00:42:17,333 - What I miss about him most is just being my friend 844 00:42:17,401 --> 00:42:20,202 That was always straightforward. 845 00:42:20,204 --> 00:42:21,337 I would tell him I love him 846 00:42:21,405 --> 00:42:24,206 And that I really appreciated the time 847 00:42:24,208 --> 00:42:28,111 That was spent with him and never took it for granted. 848 00:42:28,179 --> 00:42:30,913 - He helped out boxing gyms all over georgia. 849 00:42:30,982 --> 00:42:33,082 Vernon would want us to keep doing the same thing, 850 00:42:33,151 --> 00:42:35,017 You know, reaching out to kids and making a difference 851 00:42:35,086 --> 00:42:38,287 And teaching them the dream and showing them the right way. 852 00:42:38,355 --> 00:42:40,723 [somber music]