Maleny Perez-Alverez, a 31-year-old woman from Wilson, North Carolina, tragically lost her life on December 12, 2022, in what authorities have described as a murder-suicide. The incident occurred at a residence on Scuppernong Road, where Maleny Perez-Alverez and her partner, 39-year-old Matthew Scott Davis, were involved in a domestic conflict. According to the Wilson County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a gunshot call around 6:40 p.m. and discovered both individuals deceased at the scene. The investigation revealed that Davis fatally shot Perez-Alverez before taking his own life.
Perez-Alverez and Davis were in a dating relationship and had two children together. Prior to the incident, Davis had been served with a domestic violence protection order in November. On the day of the tragedy, Perez-Alverez had arrived at the residence with family members to retrieve personal belongings when the shooting occurred. The house, located at the end of a cul-de-sac, was owned by Davis. Neighbors stood in their yards, decorated for the holidays, as first responders filled the scene.
The deaths of Maleny Perez-Alverez and Matthew Scott Davis have left a profound impact on their community. Cherie Lindsay-Chapman, executive director of the Wesley Shelter, emphasized the tragedy of the situation, noting that the holidays can be especially difficult for families experiencing domestic violence. She urged anyone facing domestic violence, whether it takes the form of emotional, mental, financial, or physical abuse, to seek help.
In the aftermath of the incident, a GoFundMe campaign was organized to provide financial support for the Perez-Alverez family, covering funeral expenses and the basic needs of her two daughters. The campaign highlighted Maleny Perez-Alverez's qualities as a loving mother, daughter, and friend, and called for continued prayers for her family and friends as they navigate this difficult time.