Georgia Elementary School Teacher Convicted of Killing Two Siblings in Gang-Related Home Invasion Nearly a Decade After the Crime
GEORGIA — A former Georgia elementary school teacher who prosecutors say lived a secret double life as a gang member has been convicted in the fatal shootings of two children, nearly 10 years after the violent home invasion that shocked the community.
Michael White, who was teaching fifth grade at Toney Elementary School at the time of the killings, was found guilty in the murders of 11-year-old Tatiyana Coates and her 15-year-old brother, Daveon Coates.
Prosecutors Describe a Double Life
According to investigators and court testimony, White was a member of the Rolling 20s Crips gang while simultaneously working as an elementary school teacher.
Authorities said the gang was searching for a teenage boy they believed had stolen firearms from them. In an effort to locate him, White allegedly kicked in the front door of the teen’s home while armed. Other gang members then opened fire inside the residence.
Tragically, the intended target was not home at the time. Instead, his younger siblings — Tatiyana and Daveon Coates — were shot and killed. Officials confirmed that neither child had any gang affiliation.
During trial proceedings, Deputy Chief Assistant District Attorney La’Carrian Blount described the striking contrast between White’s public and private lives, stating that he was “kicking in doors at night and killing children… and going to teach children in the morning.”
Arrested While Teaching
White was later arrested at school, taken into custody while still employed as a teacher. The case moved slowly through the legal system over the years before ultimately resulting in his conviction.
The nearly decade-long wait for justice has been emotionally difficult for the victims’ family, who have consistently maintained that the children were innocent victims caught in gang retaliation.
A Crime That Shook the Community
The killings sent shockwaves through the Georgia community at the time, particularly because of White’s position as an educator. Parents and community members expressed disbelief that someone entrusted with children during the day could allegedly participate in such violence after hours.
Court officials have not released further details about sentencing at this time, but the conviction marks a major milestone in a case that has lingered for years.
Authorities have reiterated that the investigation focused on gang-related activity and the chain of events that led to the deadly home invasion. For continuing updates on major national crime cases and legal developments, stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com.
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