Austin Townsend, a 21-year-old male from Greenville, NC, tragically lost his life on August 8, 2022. The incident occurred in Rocky Mount, where Austin was found suffering from a gunshot wound to his head. He was immediately taken to UNC Health Care in Rocky Mount for treatment but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries on Friday.
The Rocky Mount Police Department responded to a ShotSpotter activation on Branch Street, where they discovered Austin Townsend in critical condition.
Following the incident, the police launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the suspect responsible for the shooting.
On Tuesday, August 9, 2022, Shaki Jones, a 32-year-old male, was arrested in connection with the murder of Austin Townsend. The arrest was made possible through the identification of Jones' vehicle by a camera system. Jones has been charged with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He is currently being held in the Edgecombe County Jail without bond.
The Rocky Mount Police Department's Criminal Investigation Division continues to investigate the shooting incident. They have urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
