Sharell Canty, 44, co-owner of Atlanta's Opium nightclub, was found shot to death in a Grayson, Georgia, home on May 24. Authorities arrested 48-year-old Stephany Byrom, who faces charges including malice murder and felony murder in what police describe as a 'domestic-related homicide.' Investigators continue to probe the incident while friends and colleagues remember Canty and vow to preserve her legacy.
Atlanta Nightclub Co-Owner Sharell Canty Fatally Shot in Grayson Home; Suspect Arrested
Sharell CantyCredit: Sharell Canty/Facebook
Sharell Canty, 44, co-owner of Atlanta's Opium nightclub, was found dead at a private residence in Grayson, Georgia, on Sunday, May 24. Gwinnett County investigators say Canty suffered two gunshot wounds to the head and was discovered early that morning by a neighbor who alerted authorities.
Officials later identified 48-year-old Stephany Byrom as a suspect. Byrom was arrested and is being held at the Gwinnett County Jail. Court records indicate she faces multiple charges, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
The Gwinnett County Police Department described the case as a 'domestic-related homicide,' though authorities have not publicly detailed the exact nature of the relationship between Canty and Byrom. Investigators continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses and work to establish a timeline as the probe remains active.
Crime scene of the homicide Sharell Canty investigationCredit: Gwinnett County Police Department
Community Reaction and Tributes
Canty was a visible figure in Atlanta's nightlife, and news of her death prompted tributes from friends, colleagues and patrons. An associate identified as Henry told local reporters that the community is 'mourning' and praised Canty's presence and business acumen: 'When she walks into a club, everybody knows Sharell's here.'
"She knew how to run a business... We're going to keep her legacy alive. We're gonna keep Opium alive," said Henry.
Former WNBA player Tamera Young posted that Canty's death 'feels like a sick dream' and remembered her as 'a real one, a good one, a heart of gold.' Friends say they plan to honor her memory and maintain the venue she helped build.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have asked anyone with information to contact Gwinnett County investigators. Local outlets, including CBS Atlanta and 11Alive, have reported on developments and cited arrest warrants and jail records in their coverage.
Support Resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233 or online at thehotline.org. Calls are toll-free and confidential in more than 170 languages.
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