Masson Sanderson, a 19-year-old African American male, was tragically shot and killed on October 22, 2021, while driving along Highway 52 in Morven, North Carolina. The incident initially appeared to be a car crash, but investigators soon discovered bullet holes in Sanderson's vehicle, a beloved Dodge Charger. Surveillance footage revealed that Sanderson was followed by a white vehicle before the shooting occurred.
The suspects, who used two different weapons, opened fire on Sanderson's car in a remote area of Anson County. The abandoned GMC Acadia used by the suspects was later found, having been stolen from Gaston County about a month prior.
The investigation into Sanderson's death has been ongoing, with the Anson County Sheriff's Office and the State Bureau of Investigation working tirelessly to uncover the truth. In July 2023, Antoine James Hill was arrested in connection with the murder. Hill is accused of shooting and killing Sanderson while he was driving on U.S. Highway 52. The Monroe Police Department's Violent Crimes Task Force played a crucial role in apprehending Hill. The arrest brought some relief to Sanderson's family, who had been waiting for answers for nearly two years. Sanderson's mother, Raven Lillie, expressed her faith that justice would eventually be served, despite the long wait.
In August 2023, a second suspect, Deoveon Byrd, was arrested following an extensive investigation. The Anson County Sheriff's Office and the State Bureau of Investigation continue to expect future arrests stemming from this incident. Sanderson's family, including his young son, Coda, who was just six months old at the time of his father's death, have been deeply affected by the loss. Sanderson's mother and grandmother have struggled with the pain of watching Coda grow up without his father, missing out on important milestones such as crawling and taking his first steps. Despite the arrests, the investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are hopeful that additional information will come to light, leading to further arrests and ultimately, justice for Masson Sanderson.
