Rodrick Lamont Battle, a 24-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on April 30, 2022, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The incident occurred at Martin Luther King Park, where Battle was fatally shot in broad daylight. The shooting also resulted in injuries to a 19-year-old man, who was subsequently airlifted to Vidant Medical Center for further treatment. The park was cordoned off with crime scene tape, and a white sedan with a shattered rear window was found within the crime scene.
The Rocky Mount Police Department swiftly acted on the case, leading to the arrest of two teenagers. Ronnie Slade, an 18-year-old male, was arrested at his home in Rocky Mount on May 2, 2022. Slade was charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder. He is currently being held without bond at the Edgecombe County Detention Facility. The following day, another 18-year-old male, Jermaine Debrew, was also arrested and charged with the same offenses. Both suspects are being held without bond as the investigation continues.
The community was deeply affected by Battle's death, with his family and friends mourning the loss of a young, talented rap artist. Battle leaves behind two young children, a boy and a girl, who now face life without their father. His mother, Raegina Battle, described him as a hardworking individual who stayed out of trouble and was dedicated to providing for his children. The family is determined to keep his legacy alive despite the tragic circumstances.
The investigation into the events leading up to the shooting is ongoing, with the Rocky Mount Police Department working diligently to uncover the motives and circumstances surrounding the incident. The community has expressed concerns about the increasing violence in the area, emphasizing the need for unity and support to prevent further tragedies.
