Santiago Lopez Paz, a 43-year-old Hispanic male, was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting on December 23, 2021, in Durham, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. in the 1200 block of Naples Place, an apartment complex near the Cheek Road interchange with U.S. 70. Lopez Paz was standing outside the apartment complex with his 17-year-old male relative when they were both shot by individuals in a car. The suspects fled the scene in a silver or gray Honda. Lopez Paz was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The 17-year-old relative sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover.
The shooting happened shortly after two other individuals in the apartment complex reported being robbed at gunpoint. The suspects in the robbery were also seen driving a silver or gray Honda, leading investigators to believe that the same individuals were involved in both incidents. The Durham Police Department has not made any arrests or identified any suspects in connection with the shooting or the robbery. The case remains an active investigation, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The death of Santiago Lopez Paz has left the community in shock and mourning. Friends and family remember him as a kind and hardworking individual who was always willing to lend a helping hand. The senseless act of violence has raised concerns about safety in the area and has prompted calls for increased police presence and community engagement to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. The investigation is ongoing, and the Durham Police Department continues to seek leads and gather evidence to bring justice to Santiago Lopez Paz and his family.
