Slaying victim shot 14 times in Chattanooga

Friday, January 1, 1904

photo Jerrico Hawthorne

James Williams Jr. was pronounced dead at Erlanger hospital after his body was riddled with 14 bullet holes, according to a Hamilton County medical examiner's report.

Williams, 23, was at home on East 17th Street when he was shot on July 27. His girlfriend, Yetta Harris, 38, also was shot in the chest and stomach, but she is expected to recover, authorities said.

Jerrico Hawthorne, 24, faces charges of murder in the first degree, attempted murder in the first degree, reckless endangerment, aggravated assault and three counts of especially aggravated robbery in connection with the incident.

The medical examiner's report shows most of the wounds hit the middle of Williams' torso, with a few dotting his arms and legs. It appears most of the bullets remained in Williams' body, according to the report.

Hawthorne was identified by witnesses on the scene and arrested last weekend at a Motel 6 at 7707 Lee Highway.

He went into the 17th Street home, demanding money, according to police.

Narcotics also were found inside the residence, police said.

Hawthorne's girlfriend, Lequela Lanette Bailey, 25, faces a charge of accessory after the fact after she did not turn him in to police. She was found inside the hotel room with him, according to arrest reports.

Hawthorne's next court date is Aug. 9 before General Sessions Court Judge Robert Moon.