Key Takeaways
- Jeffrey Hazelwood shot Carter Davis in 2016.
- In tribute to Carter, aspiring musician Slater Nalley wrote a song called “Traces of You”.
- Carter was a First Baseman at PONY Baseball and Softball.
Carter Davis’s mother, Mrs. Michele Hurley Davis, introduced Slater Nalley during the eighth season of “American Idol,” where he revealed the heartbreaking news of her son Carter’s passing.
Carter tragically passed away in 2016 at the age of 17.
The loss deeply affected the Roswell, Georgia, community when authorities discovered Carter and his friend Natalie Henderson behind a Publix grocery store, both suffering fatal gunshot wounds.
The assailant, Jeffrey Hazelwood, was arrested and sentenced to life in prison without parole after pleading guilty but mentally ill.
At the time of his demise, Carter was about to start his senior year at River Ridge High School.
He was remembered as a vibrant and warm person, someone who made a lasting impact on those around him.
In tribute to Carter, aspiring musician Slater Nalley wrote a song called “Traces of You”.
Though Slater didn’t know Carter personally, he was inspired by the story and wanted to honour him and Natalie through his music. In the song, he sings:
One look at you and I just come undone. Now you visit me in shadows I can’t reach and I can’t run. In the dark night you always found the sun. A moment breaks and you appear. And for a second I swear you’re standing right here. I’d give anything for love to be enough to make it true as the memories come racing into view, these traces of you.
Via UPI
The emotional performance deeply moved the American Idol judges, Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie, who visibly reacted to the heartfelt song.
Mrs Davis has expressed deep gratitude for the support and tributes honouring her son.
She has actively participated in events to keep Carter’s memory alive, including attending Slater Nalley’s performances.
She also shares her journey of healing and remembrance with others, which continues to touch many hearts.
On February 27, 2025, Mrs Davis posted a heartfelt message on Facebook:
Carter’s mother, Mrs Davis, has been a high school English teacher at The Lovett School since June 2021.
Carter was a First Baseman at PONY Baseball and Softball and a former Manager at Loading Swag.
He went to Crabapple Middle School and later studied at Central High School in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Carter is survived by his parents and his sister, Skye Hurley.
The Davis family continues to cherish Carter’s memory, finding strength in the support of their community and the tributes that honour his life.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Hailing from Littleton, Colorado, he was living in Rapid City, South Dakota, at the time of his passing.
