911 operator: 911 Baker. Do you need police, fire or Medic?
Cherica Adams: Police! I've been shot. I've been shot!
It was 12:31 a.m. on Nov. 16, 1999, when Cherica Adams _ pregnant, near death and moaning in pain from four gunshot wounds _ made the 911 call that saved a life.
One of the most notorious crimes in Charlotte, N.C., history was committed that night _ a murder conspiracy that sent former Carolina Panther Rae Carruth to prison for nearly 19 years. But those four shots were only the beginning.
Just days from Carruth's Oct. 22 release from prison, this is that story told as it never has been. The passage of time allowed for dozens of the people involved _ family, friends, investigators, attorneys, jurors and the killer himself _ to speak more freely than ever.
This is a murder mystery. A love story. A tale of betrayal, forgiveness and a miracle named Chancellor Lee.
It started with the 911 call.
911 Medic: OK, can you tell what part of your body you're shot on?
Cherica Adams: My back. My neck.
911 Medic: OK, how did this happen?
Carruth was 25 years old and a Panthers wide receiver _ the team's No. 1 draft choice in 1997 _ on the day he was arrested and charged with first-degree murder.
On the day he is scheduled to be freed from prison, he will be 44.
