SOUTH FULTON, Ga. -- A teenager is behind bars charged in the double murder of two teens.
On May 29, at a home on Two Lakes Circle, 16-year-old Grant Antonio Payton and 19-year-old Tyree Johnson were visiting a friend when they were both killed. Their 15-year-old friend was shot in the face, but survived.
11Alive's Ashley Johnson talked with Payton's mother, Donese Gordon, who said it's been a painful summer for her family.
"My life since May 29 has been a living hell," she said. "The only reason I have the strength now to speak with you is because I'm fighting for him. And I know I have to keep fighting so he's not another black teen murdered."
Her son Grant, who was excited about the prospect of starting his new job at Chick-fil-A, would have turned 17 next month.
Photos: 16-year-old Grant Payton
Months after the deadly shooting, police believe they have the suspected killer in custody. Monday, officers arrested Adrian Chappell in connection with the murders.
"We also have not ruled out that this incident was gang-related," said South Fulton Police Chief Keith Meadows. "We're looking at that as a possibility."
Two others, an unidentified 16-year-old and Montavious Powell, were also taken into custody with Chappell. All three are facing burglary charges.
Chief Meadows said they do believe others might have been involved with the shooting, so they are still investigating.
Gordon said the arrest brought her a sense of relief. She also had a message for her son's suspected killer.
"I'm sorry that you took Grant, but I'm not sorry for what is going to happen to you," she said.
For Grant's birthday in September, Gordon plans on helping other children by giving away one of his favorite things -- sneakers.
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