Decatur police said Tuesday an autopsy confirmed a Cobb County hair stylist was killed by a gunshot wound but said they could not release any other details for fear of compromising their investigation.

“We recognize that everyone is seeking a quick answer to explain the senseless loss of Karen Pearce’s life but a thorough investigation is a slow and methodical process,” Sgt. Jennifer S. Ross said in a email to Channel 2 Action News. “Investigators are following up on every potential lead in an effort to establish a motive and identify who was responsible for the death of Karen Pearce.”

Pearce, 44, was found dead behind One Decatur Town Center over the weekend by somebody leaving a nearby parking deck, Decatur police previously said. Witnesses reported hearing a gunshot in that area before the Smyrna woman was discovered.

Pearce worked at True Salon off of Dallas Highway, according to a post on the salon’s official Facebook page.

Investigators ask anyone with information to contact the Decatur Police Department at 404-373-6551 or Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS. Tips can be submitted online at www.crimestoppersatlanta.org.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

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