On February 26, 2023, at approximately 12:03 p.m., Rowlett Police officers responded to a shooting in the 2100 block of Lakeview Parkway in Rowlett, Texas. Upon arrival, they found 22-year-old Rowlett resident, Kerry Davante Peter Cottrell, critically injured in the shopping center driveway. He was transported by Rowlett Fire Rescue to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.
The investigation revealed that this was not a random act of violence; both parties were engaged in a narcotics transaction involving marijuana. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Virgil Allen Harris of Mesquite, Texas, was out on bond for a 2021 aggravated robbery case in Dallas County at the time of the incident. Harris was also known to use the alias "Derrick Deon Dozier."
On March 16, 2023, at approximately 3:00 p.m., with assistance from multiple agencies and public tips, officers located Harris near the 1300 block of Mill Crossing in Garland. After about 40 minutes of negotiation, Harris surrendered peacefully. He admitted to shooting Cottrell following a confrontation over the marijuana exchange. The case was filed with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. On March 17, 2023, Harris was arraigned for the Rowlett murder charge, with bond set at two million dollars.
Kerry Cottrell was born on March 19, 2000, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to parents Kionne Cottrell and Kevin Thomas. After relocating to Texas in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina, the family settled in Rowlett. Kerry attended local schools, including Rowlett High School, and had a passion for football, basketball, and video games. He was a loving father to his three children: Kerry Jr., D'kharia, and Kerriona.
The tragic loss of Kerry has deeply affected his family, friends, and the Rowlett community. His legacy continues through his children and loved ones, who remember him for his dedication as a father and his vibrant personality.
