Austin Harris, a 27-year-old male from Stantonsburg, North Carolina, tragically lost his life on October 11, 2021. The incident occurred around 12:30 AM when Wayne County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a disturbance call in the 100 block of Eva’s Drive, south of Stantonsburg. Upon arrival, deputies found Austin Harris deceased on the lawn from an apparent gunshot wound. The investigation revealed that Harris and the suspect, 53-year-old John K.
Daw of Stantonsburg, had been arguing in the yard. The argument escalated into a physical altercation, during which Daw allegedly drew a handgun and shot Harris. Daw was subsequently arrested and charged with voluntary manslaughter. He was placed into the Wayne County Detention Center with a bond set at $35,000 secured.
Austin Harris's death was a significant loss to his family and community. His obituary described him as a kind and compassionate young man who was deeply loved by those who knew him. The unexpected nature of his death left many in shock and mourning.
The legal proceedings following Harris's death focused on the charge of voluntary manslaughter against John K. Daw. The investigation determined that the altercation between Harris and Daw was the result of a heated argument that turned violent. Daw's arrest and subsequent detention highlighted the seriousness of the incident and the legal consequences of such actions.
