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Murder-Suicide in Cary: 19-Year-Old Kills Mother and Girlfriend Before Taking His Own Life

Gerald Jackson
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Murder-Suicide in Cary: 19-Year-Old Kills Mother and Girlfriend Before Taking His Own Life

Court documents reveal that 19-year-old Xavier Neil Holton killed his mother and girlfriend before taking his own life on Monday afternoon in Cary, North Carolina.

The Cary Police Department identified the victims as 54-year-old Erica Alsye Holton, her son Xavier Neil Holton, and Xavier’s girlfriend, 19-year-old Aminah Michelle Guy.

All three were found dead from fatal gunshot wounds inside a residence on Smokemont Drive.

Police investigating the tragic triple shooting in Cary, NC, where a mother, her teenage son, and his girlfriend were found shot dead inside a Smokemont Drive home. Source: ABC 11 WTVD

Two of three identified after allegedly robbing a 66-year-old woman in Johnston County

Details of the Shooting

Police were called to the Linville Ridge neighborhood at around 3 p.m. and remained on the scene for several hours, conducting a thorough investigation. By late Monday night, authorities confirmed the victims’ identities.

Erica Alsye Holton, a 54-year-old North Carolina mother, tragically found dead in a Cary home alongside her son and his girlfriend.
Xavier Neil Holton, a 19-year-old Cary resident, was found shot dead alongside his mother and girlfriend in a tragic incident.
Aminah Michelle Guy, a 19-year-old, tragically lost her life in a triple shooting in Cary, NC, with her boyfriend and his mother.

Cary police discovered a gun next to the body of 19-year-old Xavier Holton upstairs in the home he shared with his mother, Erica. According to warrants, Erica and Xavier’s girlfriend, Aminah, were found dead elsewhere in the home.

Shawn Certain, Erica’s husband, told authorities he called 911 after arriving home Monday afternoon to find his wife lying on her back and Aminah slumped over in a chair.

During the 911 call, Certain suggested that his stepson, Xavier, could be a suspect in the shooting deaths. He explained that he had been on the phone with Erica when he heard two “loud pops” before the call abruptly ended. Certain also informed detectives that Xavier had recently mentioned purchasing a gun.

According to WRAL News, police are aware of Xavier’s mental health struggles, which the family shared with investigators. However, it is unclear if those struggles played a role in the tragic events.

The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to determine what happened inside the home.

Zebulon Bus Driver Charged with Breaking 3-Year-Old’s Leg

Gerald Jackson
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0
Zebulon Bus Driver Charged with Breaking 3-Year-Old’s Leg

A Zebulon, North Carolina bus driver is accused of abusing a 3-year-old child in September. Tiffian Truesdale, 42, has been charged with intentional child abuse inflicting serious injury after she allegedly broke the leg the 3-year-old while transporting the child.

Truesdale was arrested for the charges on Monday, Nov. 8.

Details of the Incident

According to arrest warrants, the alleged incident occurred while Truesdale was driving the child from Durant Elementary School to their daycare. Truesdale is employed by Student Transportation of America (STA), an independent transportation service that contracts with schools.

Response from STA and Wake County Schools

STA quickly placed Truesdale on leave after learning of the allegations in September. The company released a statement emphasizing its commitment to safety:

“It has always been the policy of STA to adhere to the highest safety standards in each and every aspect of our operations. As a result, this driver was placed on leave as soon as we were made aware of the situation in September. A commitment to safety is a condition of every driver’s continued employment with our company.”

Similarly, the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) issued a statement ensuring transparency and cooperation with law enforcement:

“The district is aware that a driver employed by a contract transportation vendor was arrested and charged with intentional child abuse with serious physical injury. As soon as the district was made aware of information related to a possible injury of a student, the driver was immediately removed from all routes serving our schools. In addition, the district has and will continue to cooperate fully with law enforcement throughout the investigation.”

36 Players and One Coach Suspended After Brawl Erupts Following NC Central’s 26-3 Victory Over Howard University

Gerald Jackson
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36 Players and One Coach Suspended After Brawl Erupts Following NC Central’s 26-3 Victory Over Howard University

An assistant coach and 36 football players have been suspended following a brawl between the North Carolina Central University and Howard University football teams.

NC Central wasn’t playing games at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium, and the scoreboard proved it with a dominant 26-3 victory over Howard University. But as if the thrashing on the field wasn’t enough, things got heated post-game, erupting into a full-on brawl that now has the NCAA and the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) conducting investigations.

The brawl broke out Friday night, Nov. 15 in Durham, North Carolina, moments after NCCU Head Coach Trei Oliver and Howard’s Head Coach Larry Scott exchanged what was supposed to be a sportsmanlike handshake. Instead, fists started flying, and chaos ensued as players from both teams squared off.

Players from NC Central and Howard University engage in a heated post-game brawl on the field at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium following NC Central’s 26-3 victory.

Coach Oliver wasted no time distancing his program from the incident.

“That’s not us. That’s not who we are. That won’t be tolerated in my program,” Oliver told reporters emphatically.

Reflecting on past games, Oliver noted:

 “Last year, I didn’t like the vibe at the end of the game, so I told my guys to go to the locker room. I went across the field, shook the coach’s hand, and took the loss. This year, I didn’t see what happened, but that’s not our football team.”

WATCH VIDEO

 

MEAC announce suspensions after brawl

On Monday, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) announced the suspension of one assistant coach and 19 players from NCCU, along with 17 players from Howard.

“The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference has a zero-tolerance policy for fighting, as it directly violates the values of sportsmanship, respect, and integrity that define our Conference,” said MEAC Commissioner Sonja Stills.

“We are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all student-athletes, coaches, and fans. Any actions that compromise these principles will result in serious consequences. We expect all participants in MEAC athletic events to conduct themselves with dignity and uphold the high standards that reflect the spirit of the MEAC.”

NCCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon released the following statement:

“The altercation is not only deeply disappointing but also stands in stark contrast to North Carolina Central University’s (NCCU) core values. Such disruptive behavior is unacceptable, and we are committed to conducting a full investigation and taking appropriate disciplinary action to ensure accountability.”

Charlotte Man Accused of Killing Woman He Impregnated After Admitting Infidelity to Family Member

Gerald Jackson
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0
Charlotte Man Accused of Killing Woman He Impregnated After Admitting Infidelity to Family Member

A North Carolina man, Dasean Maddox, is facing murder charges in connection to the death of 33-year-old Jameisha Wilkes. According to court documents, Maddox’s arrest followed a tip from a family member who revealed his alleged confession to the crime.

Details of the Incident

On Wednesday, Nov. 13, officers from the University City Division of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department responded to a call about an assault with a deadly weapon at 5406 Strive Street. When officers arrived, they discovered Wilkes dead from a gunshot wound.

Jameisha Wilkes, a 33-year-old woman tragically shot and killed in Charlotte, NC.

While police were processing the scene, a woman identifying herself as Maddox’s family member approached them with critical information. She was taken to police headquarters for questioning, where she revealed details about the crime, according to an affidavit obtained by The North Carolina Beat.

The Confession and Evidence

The family member told detectives that Maddox had texted her earlier that morning, admitting he had been “unfaithful” and had gotten another woman pregnant. Maddox identified Wilkes as the woman and even provided the street where she lived.

Dasean Maddox, the Charlotte man accused of murdering Jameisha Wilkes after allegedly confessing to the crime.

According to the affidavit, Maddox confessed to the family member that he shot Wilkes, took her phone, and ran it over at the intersection of Seek Street and Strive Street in an attempt to destroy it.

Arrest and Recovery of Evidence

Following the family member’s tip, police located Maddox and arrested him. During a search of his vehicle, officers recovered a firearm and a cell phone, which are believed to be linked to the crime.

Maddox is currently being held at the Mecklenburg County Jail without bond.

Jacksonville Woman Faces Multiple Felonies After Fatal DWI Crash on Highway 24

Gerald Jackson
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0
Jacksonville Woman Faces Multiple Felonies After Fatal DWI Crash on Highway 24

Onslow County authorities arrested a local woman accused of driving impaired with children in her car, resulting in the death of one moped rider and severe injuries to another, Sunday afternoon.

The North Carolina Highway Patrol reports that Angela Perkins, 38, of Jacksonville, rear-ended a moped on Highway 24 East near Hubert at approximately 3:40 p.m. The crash claimed the life of 50-year-old Darlene Valentine and left 48-year-old Eric Kane hospitalized at the Naval Medical Center at Camp Lejeune.

Despite both victims wearing DOT-approved helmets, the collision’s force ejected them from the moped, proving fatal for Valentine. Kane remains under medical care for his injuries.

Court documents reveal that Perkins, who had a prior impaired driving conviction, was driving with a revoked license at the time of the crash. Authorities also allege she refused to submit to a blood test at the scene.

Felony Charges Pile Up for Driver

Perkins now faces a litany of charges, including:
– Felony death by vehicle
– Felony serious injury by DWI
– Two counts of felony hit-and-run
– Driving while impaired (DWI)
– Driving while license revoked (impaired revocation)
– Three counts of misdemeanor child abuse
– Child restraint violation
– Failure to reduce speed

She remains held in the Onslow County Jail without bond.

Mother Claims her 2nd Grader Was Found Hanging in Bathroom at Waldorf, Maryland Elementary School

Gerald Jackson
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0
Mother Claims her 2nd Grader Was Found Hanging in Bathroom at Waldorf, Maryland Elementary School

A mother took to social media to share a incident involving her 2nd-grade son, who was allegedly found hanging in the bathroom at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School in Waldorf, Maryland. The mother, known as ‘Youlove Nisha’ on Facebook, made the post on Saturday, November 16.

In her post, Nisha explained that the incident occurred on Friday, November 15, at the Charles County school. While she initially did not name the school, the district later issued an official statement regarding the situation. According to Nisha, she received a phone call stating that her son was being rushed to a Washington, D.C. hospital.

“I walked into the trauma room with 8-10 doctors surrounding my son. This is the most heartbreaking and traumatizing situation my family has ever been through,” Nisha wrote in her emotional Facebook post.

The mother stated that when the principal went into the bathroom, her son was found “foaming at the mouth and unconscious.”

Mother Speaks Out About Bullying Concerns

Nisha expressed that the events surrounding her son’s condition were “unacceptable” and that “nothing about this is okay.” She further emphasized that “bullying is never okay,” suggesting that bullying might have played a role in the incident.

Nisha’s son.

Charles County School District Responds

The school’s principal responded to the claims, offering an explanation of what happened. The district initially released a statement on Friday and reshared it on Saturday as Nisha’s story gained traction on social media.

According to Carrie Burke, the principal of C. Paul Barnhart Elementary, Nisha’s son and another student were “horse playing” in the school bathroom when Nisha’s son’s jacket got caught on a stall door hook.

The statement added that the student could not free himself, and the other student involved was unable to help. The school claims that the student left the bathroom to seek help.

Read the Full Statement Below:

Carrie Burke, principal of C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School, delivers a statement addressing the recent incident involving a 2nd-grade student in the school bathroom.
Carrie Burke, principal of C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School in Waldorf, Maryland

It is also being reported that an administrator was able to assist, but 911 was called by a staff member for “additional precautionary medical support. 

Troll Doll Lookalike Among Three Arrested for Raleigh Citi Trends Theft

Gerald Jackson
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0
Troll Doll Lookalike Among Three Arrested for Raleigh Citi Trends Theft

A man resembling a “troll doll” and two accomplices were busted for allegedly shoplifting from a Citi Trends store in Raleigh. The primary suspect, 33-year-old Bruce Anthony Blackwell, is a habitual larcenist with a history of theft convictions.

Bruce Anthony Blackwell, habitual larcenist arrested for theft at Citi Trends in Raleigh, NC.

Details of the Incident

According to warrants obtained by The North Carolina Beat, Blackwell was accused of “feloniously stealing, taking, and carrying away multiple clothing items” from Citi Trends on November 10. The warrants also highlighted Blackwell’s lengthy criminal record, which includes:

  • 2018: Convicted of misdemeanor larceny in Guilford County.
  • 2020: Two convictions in Guilford County – one for misdemeanor larceny and another for habitual larceny.
  • 2023: Another conviction for misdemeanor larceny in Guilford County.

Accomplices and Charges

Blackwell wasn’t alone in this latest theft. Police stated he conspired with Malik McManus and Christina McManus to commit misdemeanor larceny.

  • Malik McManus: Accused of stealing items worth $212.20 from Citi Trends. He also faces a misdemeanor conspiracy charge for collaborating with the other defendants.
Malik McManus, arrested for conspiring to steal items from Citi Trends in Raleigh, NC, and charged with misdemeanor larceny.”
  • Christina McManus: Charged with conspiracy to commit larceny and carrying a concealed weapon. The concealed weapon, identified as a ViperTek stun gun, was found during her arrest.
Christina McManus, charged with conspiracy to commit theft and carrying a concealed weapon at Citi Trends in Raleigh, NC.

Arrests and Bond Details

Both Blackwell and Christina McManus were released from jail following their arrests. However, Malik McManus remains in custody on a $1,000 bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, where he may seek time served if unable to afford bail.

 

From Plies to Lies: Soulja Boy Calls Rapper ‘Broke’ Amid Copyright Lawsuit

Gerald Jackson
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0
From Plies to Lies: Soulja Boy Calls Rapper ‘Broke’ Amid Copyright Lawsuit

Rapper Soulja Boy is responding to Florida rapper Plies for filing a lawsuit alleging that Soulja Boy infringed on his copyright by using elements from Plies‘ 2008 track “Me & My Goons” in the 2010 hit “Pretty Boy Swag.”

Plies Allegations Against Soulja Boy

According to the lawsuit, Plies claims that Soulja Boy not only used elements of his track in “Pretty Boy Swag” but also authorized artists Megan Thee Stallion and GloRilla to sample the same material. Their collaborative track, “Wanna Be,” released in April 2024, allegedly borrows substantial parts of the copyrighted song, including melody, rhythm, and lyrics.

Rapper Plies, Florida-based artist behind ‘Me & My Goons,’ involved in a legal battle over alleged copyright infringement.

Plies further alleges that the misuse continued with the release of the “Wanna Be Remix” in May 2024, featuring GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion, and Cardi B.

Soulja Boy Fires Back

Soulja Boy wasted no time addressing the allegations, calling Plies’ lawsuit a desperate money grab. In response, Soulja Boy denied the accusations, claiming the beat for “Pretty Boy Swag” was entirely original and did not sample “Me & My Goons.”

The rapper also criticized Plies for waiting ten years to file a suit. In a heated video shared online, Soulja Boy said:

“Plies, if you don’t sit your broke a***down somewhere… Pretty Boy Swag is not your beat, n*gga!” He went on to say, “You need to change your name to ‘Lies’ because you a motherf***ing lie!”

Watch the Video

Check out Soulja Boy’s full response in the video below:

To keep it real, Soulja Boy questioning why it took Plies 10 years to file the lawsuit is valid. However, I’d guess Plies waited that long so the potential payout could increase. We compared both songs side by side, and while Soulja Boy’s track has a higher intro tone, the two do sound similar. This will definitely be an interesting case to watch.

Massive Manhunt Underway for Armed and Dangerous Man Who Shot Two People in Lenoir County

Gerald Jackson
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0
Massive Manhunt Underway for Armed and Dangerous Man Who Shot Two People in Lenoir County

A large-scale manhunt is currently in progress for 38-year-old Ryan Everett, a man wanted for shooting two individuals in Lenoir County.

Authorities have intensified their search efforts as Everett, who is considered armed and dangerous, remains on the run, as the search enters its third day.

Serious Charges Against Everett

Ryan Everett faces multiple serious felony charges, including attempted murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. Sheriff Jack Rogers confirmed that authorities have cleared the area surrounding Everett’s residence at 3100 Wheat Swamp Road, but the fugitive managed to escape beyond the perimeter. Despite three days of relentless searching, law enforcement officials have yet to locate him.

“We are actively pursuing every lead to apprehend him,” Sheriff Rogers stated. “He is still on the run, and we are doing everything in our power to track him down. We will continue to search until he is caught.”

Details of the Incident and the Search

The incident that led to the manhunt occurred on Wednesday evening, when Everett reportedly stole two firearms in Greene County around 7:30 p.m. Shortly after, Everett made his way to his residence on Wheat Swamp Road, where he allegedly shot two victims—Dustin Snyder, 37, and Kathryn Sturges, also 37. The victims were taken to the hospital, with Snyder in critical condition and Sturges in stable condition as of Friday night.

Investigators are still working to determine a motive for the shooting, but the circumstances remain unclear. Both victims are from the surrounding area—Snyder is from Kinston, and Sturges is from Snow Hill.

A Multi-Agency Search Effort

Authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to capture Everett. The N.C. State Highway Patrol has deployed a helicopter to aid in the search, and robots are being used to comb areas around his home.

Law enforcement from neighboring counties, Kinston police, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Highway Patrol are all assisting in the operation.

Sheriff’s Warning to the Public

Sheriff Rogers urged the community to stay vigilant and report any information that could help lead to Everett’s arrest.

“We need the public’s help in locating him. If anyone has seen Everett or knows where he may be, we urge you to call 911 immediately.”

For tips or information regarding Everett’s whereabouts, contact the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office or call 911.

Teenage Girl Found Dead in Boger City, North Carolina; Authorities Seek Person of Interest

Gerald Jackson
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0
Teenage Girl Found Dead in Boger City, North Carolina; Authorities Seek Person of Interest

18-year-old Sydney Bisson, from Charlotte, North Carolina, was found dead on November 10, 2024, in the woods near Highway 105 in Boger City. After a multi-day search, authorities discovered her body.

Sydney had been reported missing by her family after disappearing without a trace. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office launched a search, which led to the discovery of her body close to NC East 150 Highway. As investigators work to piece together the circumstances surrounding Sydney’s death, police are now searching for Gregory Clifford Houser, 34, of Bessemer City, in connection with the case.

Gregory Houser Sought by Authorities

Gregory Houser, who is currently a person of interest, faces charges including felony concealment and failure to report a death. Houser is also connected to multiple pending charges across several North Carolina counties—Catawba, Mecklenburg, Lincoln, and Gaston. His past offenses have raised concerns as authorities continue their search for him.

Gregory Clifford Houser, 34, is wanted by authorities in connection with the death of Sydney Bisson, whose body was found near Highway 105 in Boger City, North Carolina, on November 10, 2024.

Houser was previously placed under pre-trial electronic monitoring in Gaston County, which required him to wear an ankle bracelet. However, he has now been accused of tampering with the device. In addition to the felony warrant, Houser is facing a misdemeanor charge for interfering with the monitoring device.

Investigation Underway: Cause of Death Still Unknown

As of now, the cause of Sydney Bisson’s death remains unclear. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding her untimely passing. It’s also unclear what’s Houser connection to Sydney

While the search for Gregory Houser continues, investigators urge anyone with information to come forward.

If you have any information regarding the death of Sydney Bisson or the whereabouts of Gregory Clifford Houser, please contact the Lincoln County Communications Center at 704-735-8202, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 704-732-9050, or Lincolnton/Lincoln County Crime Stoppers at 704-736-8909.

Stay tuned for updates as this case develops, and keep an eye on news outlets for any new information related to the investigation.

Pennsylvania Man Arrested After Stabbing NC EMS Worker: Authorities Investigate Criminal Act

Gerald Jackson
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1
Pennsylvania Man Arrested After Stabbing NC EMS Worker: Authorities Investigate Criminal Act

Authorities in Edgecombe County arrested 34-year-old Carlos Santos-Guifarro of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, after he allegedly stabbed an EMS worker in the neck with a pair of scissors. This violent incident happened following a car crash on U.S. 64 Bypass, which authorities now believe was not an accident but a premeditated criminal act.

According to Edgecombe County Sheriff’s deputies, Santos-Guifarro’s vehicle veered off the road and crashed on Howard Avenue Extension. Inside the vehicle were Santos-Guifarro, a woman, and her two young children. While in the back of an ambulance being transported for medical attention, Santos-Guifarro reportedly attacked an EMS worker with a pair of scissors, stabbing the employee in the neck.

Deputies deployed a taser, which subdued the suspect. Santos-Guifarro was immediately arrested and taken into custody. The EMS worker, who was not identified in the release, is expected to recover from their injuries.

Upon further investigation, authorities discovered that the crash was not an accident but a deliberate act. Deputies confirmed that the injuries sustained by the woman and her two daughters did not originate from the crash. They later determined that the wreck had been staged as part of a larger criminal plan.

In addition to charges of attempted murder, Santos-Guifarro is facing multiple counts of assault by strangulation. His bond has been set at a staggering $3 million, as authorities continue to piece together the details of this disturbing case.

North Carolina Woman Turns Herself In After Deadly Shooting of Ex-Boyfriend: Details Emerge

Gerald Jackson
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1
North Carolina Woman Turns Herself In After Deadly Shooting of Ex-Boyfriend: Details Emerge

Olivia Stokes, a woman from North Carolina, has been arrested after police say she fatally shot her ex-boyfriend, Travis Lee, following a violent altercation. Stokes turned herself in to authorities on Friday, November 15, at approximately 4 p.m., following the tragic incident that unfolded earlier last week.

Shooting Incident on East Simmons Avenue

The shooting began early Tuesday morning, November 12, when police responded to reports of a shooting at 403 East Simmons Avenue in Williamston at around 5:15 a.m. Upon arriving at the scene, officers found 35-year-old Travis Lee, who had been fatally shot. According to investigators, the shooting followed a heated physical altercation between Stokes and Lee.

403 East Simmons Avenue in North Carolina, the location where Travis Lee was fatally shot during a confrontation with Olivia Stokes.

While details of the confrontation remain unclear, police confirmed that Stokes is now in custody and being held without bond.

Details on Olivia Stokes’ Arrest

Stokes’ decision to turn herself in came after several days of investigation into the shooting. At this time, police are still gathering evidence and continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

Olivia Stokes, North Carolina woman charged in the fatal shooting of her ex-boyfriend, Travis Lee, following a physical altercation.

Stokes is facing serious charges and is being held in jail without bond.

Tragedy in Asheville: Mother to be laid to Rest After Domestic Violence murder

Gerald Jackson
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0
Tragedy in Asheville: Mother to be laid to Rest After Domestic Violence murder

The Asheville community is mourning the loss of 26-year-old Makayla Lashea Harrison, who was tragically found dead in her home last Saturday, November 9. Harrison’s death, a result of a gunshot wound, has been linked to an alleged act of domestic violence.

Timeline of Events

The Asheville Police Department responded to a welfare check at a residence on South French Broad Avenue around 11 a.m. on November 9. Upon entering, officers discovered Harrison dead.

Police quickly identified her boyfriend, 34-year-old Darren Lamon Clayton, as the primary suspect. Authorities allege that Clayton, who has an extensive criminal history and was previously flagged as a violent offender, was responsible for pulling the trigger.

Darren Lamon Clayton, 34, was arrested in Jacksonville, North Carolina, on November 13, in connection with Makayla’s death.

Clayton, who had been arrested just weeks earlier on October 28 but was released shortly thereafter, was located and taken into custody on Wednesday, November 13, in Jacksonville, North Carolina, near the coast.

A Community in Mourning

Harrison’s death has shocked the Asheville community. Known for her bright personality and love for children, Harrison graduated from Asheville High School in 2017, where she participated in dance, theater, and ROTC. Her passion for education led her to work as a kindergarten teacher’s assistant at Vance Elementary School and as an after-school assistant at the Chosen POD at the Arthur Edington Education and Career Center.

“Kayla had a passion for the kids, and they were very fond of her. To know her was to love her,” her obituary reads. “She was always the life of the party.”

Domestic Violence Awareness

Asheville Police Captain Joe Silberman emphasized the domestic violence nature of this case, urging individuals in abusive relationships to seek help.

“Domestic violence continues to take too many lives in our community,” Silberman said. “We want anyone experiencing abuse to know that there are resources available.”

A Final Farewell

Harrison’s funeral service will be held this Saturday, where friends, family, and community members will gather to honor her life and legacy.

Makayla Lashea Harrison, a 26-year-old beloved teacher’s assistant from Asheville, was tragically found dead in her home on November 9, 2024.

Resources for Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788.

 

Tarboro Man Arrested for Shooting Into Homes Occupied by Children, More Charges Expected

Gerald Jackson
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0
Tarboro Man Arrested for Shooting Into Homes Occupied by Children, More Charges Expected

A Tarboro, North Carolina man is facing serious charges after deputies say he opened fire on multiple homes, some with children inside, earlier this month.

Dashon Smith, identified by the Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office, was arrested last Wednesday in connection to the shootings. Authorities say the first incident occurred on October 4, when deputies responded to reports of gunfire on Bobtail Court in Pinetops. Upon arrival, deputies found several shell casings and multiple bullet holes riddling a home.

Inside the residence were five children, ranging in age from 7 to 15, along with one adult.

As deputies were investigating the scene, another round of gunfire erupted nearby. The shots were traced to a home on Blackbird Lane in Macclesfield, where an adult and a 14-year-old were present. That home, too, sustained damage from the gunfire.

Following their investigation, deputies arrested Smith and charged him with two counts of felony discharge of a weapon into occupied property. He has since posted bond and been released from the Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center.

Authorities have indicated that additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.

Kinston Teacher Assistant Charged in Assault on Child at Banks Elementary School

Gerald Jackson
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0
Kinston Teacher Assistant Charged in Assault on Child at Banks Elementary School

A teacher assistant at Banks Elementary School in Kinston, North Carolina, is facing serious charges following an alleged assault on a young student under the age of 12.

Authorities say the incident occurred on October 30 and involved Sherrinita Caldwell, 45, who has since resigned from her role at the school.

Sherrinita Caldwell

Incident Details

According to the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office, Caldwell allegedly assaulted a young boy in the school cafeteria, reportedly pulling the student’s arm and pushing his head into a table. Officials state the child sustained minor bruises in the incident.

Security Footage and Investigation

Deputies obtained security footage from Banks Elementary, which reportedly substantiated the accusations and led to Caldwell’s criminal charges. The surveillance video, according to officials, captured enough evidence to support the student’s claims and justified law enforcement’s intervention.

School Response

Lenoir County Schools confirmed that Caldwell was hired in January 2022 as both a teacher assistant and a bus driver. Following the incident, she reportedly submitted her resignation the very next day. School officials have expressed their commitment to maintaining a safe learning environment for all students and emphasized that swift action was taken in light of the allegations.

Sherrinita Caldwell

Charges and Legal Proceedings

Caldwell now faces criminal charges of assault on a child under 12.

Missing 83-Year-old Pittsboro woman reportedly found dead in Person County

Gerald Jackson
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0
Missing 83-Year-old Pittsboro woman reportedly found dead in Person County

Deputies with the Person’s County Sheriff’s Office have said they believe they found the body of 83-year-old Alice Parsons who had been missing for nearly a month.

The elderly woman, who had left her home in Pittsboro, North Carolina was found in a vehicle matching her description in the 8500 block of Burlington Road in Hurdle Mills, North Carolina.

Alice McIlvaine Parsons missing from Pittsboro, North Carolina.

At around 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, a local farmer found Parsons. The vehicle, a gray 2009 Ford Escape, was found approximately one mile off the road and down an embankment, with Parsons’ body inside. This discovery came after an extensive search for Parsons, who had last been seen on the evening of October 17, when she left her home.

Parsons Gray 2009 Ford Escape

Authorities had launched an investigation after Parsons’ family became concerned when they had not heard from her in several days. Her daughter reported that her mother had been experiencing episodes of confusion recently, which she believed might have led Parsons to become lost. When deputies arrived at Parsons’ Graycliff Road home, they found her missing, leaving her car behind and her cell phone on the kitchen counter.

Despite the tragic news, authorities have yet to determine the cause of death. The Person County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the State Medical Examiner’s Office will perform a positive identification and assess the cause of death.

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