JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — The family of a young woman found dead by a Roswell pool is thanking their community in the wake of their daughter's death.
Mercedes Chico-Sims was reported missing from her Johns Creek home early May 28 after her mother told police the 17-year-old sneaked out of the house around 1 a.m. - like she'd done many times before. But this time, family said Chico-Sims didn't return.
The Centennial High School student's body was discovered by a maintenance worker at a Roswell apartment complex in its pool area the next day.
Family previously released a statement on Chico-Sims' death, calling it devastating. Now, family is turning their attention to honoring the teen's life, though it's through mourning.
“We appreciate the outpouring of love and concern from the community regarding the loss of Mercedes," family said through a spokesperson, Sunday. "We are so thankful for our family at the North Atlanta Church of Christ. We are especially grateful to Crowell Brothers Funeral Home in Norcross who have generously donated all of their services to help us celebrate her life.“
Funeral services for Chico-Sims are scheduled for Wednesday, June 5 at 3:30 p.m. at North Atlanta Church of Christ. A reception will follow.
As for the investigation, 18-year-old Elijah Foster has since been arrested in connection to her death on charges of concealing the death of another. Police said her body had signs of trauma, but have not yet classified the investigation into Chico-Sims' death as a homicide investigation.
