Judge sends Georgia DoorDash driver fatal shooting case to grand jury

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FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — A Fulton County judge moved the case against Christopher Ates to a grand jury after investigators presented surveillance footage showing the fatal shooting of Eboni Anderson, a mother of three delivering a DoorDash order outside Palmetto Elementary School. The update came during a preliminary hearing Monday, according to Fox 5 Atlanta.

Surveillance Footage Shows Deadly Shooting

Investigators said the footage captures the moment Ates shot Anderson outside the school. Prosecutors stated that Anderson had just picked up a Chick‑fil‑A order for a teacher when the shooting occurred.

Ates was reportedly in the vehicle with Anderson as she arrived at the school. Surveillance cameras recorded the gunfire. Officers found Anderson’s body near the entrance with six shell casings nearby. Police also found bags containing Ates’ identification at the scene.

Investigators Describe Violent Attack

During the hearing, Fulton County Schools Police Investigator Carlos Dixon testified about the severity of the shooting.

“She was shot multiple times,” Dixon said. “On her body and also in the head.”

Dixon also suggested a possible dispute before the gunfire, noting it was “just speculation,” but believed Anderson “was kicking him out of the car.”

History of Domestic Violence Emerges

Investigators told the court that Anderson previously reported Ates for domestic violence. In an interview last year, she said Ates had put a gun to her head, according to testimony.

Ates Fled With Toddler in Vehicle

After the shooting, Ates fled the scene. Investigators said he led Houston County police on a chase. During the pursuit, Ates allegedly struck a semi‑truck while his toddler was inside the vehicle. Footage showed the car losing control and veering off the road.

Deputies later found the child crying inside the vehicle. EMS evaluated the toddler before turning the child over to juvenile authorities.

Judge Finds Probable Cause for Six Charges

The judge found probable cause for six charges, including malice murder and felony murder. Ates remains held without bond as the case moves to a Fulton County grand jury.

GoFundMe Raises $20,000 for Anderson’s Funeral and Children

A verified GoFundMe has raised more than $20,000 to support Anderson’s family. The fundraiser seeks help with funeral expenses and long‑term support for her three children.

The family wrote:

“Our family is devastated by this tragic loss of Eboni. She was a beautiful, kind, and gentle soul. Anyone who knew her knows the warmth and love she carried in her heart. We are heartbroken beyond words and are trying to process this unimaginable loss.”

They added:

“To honor Eboni’s life and assist with funeral arrangements, our family has established a GoFundMe to help lay her to rest. We ask that you keep our family in your prayers.”

To learn more or donate, visit the verified GoFundMe page.