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.
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.
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.
