Stephen Patrick Horton, a 42-year-old man from Smithfield, North Carolina, tragically lost his life on August 25, 2021. The incident occurred at an apartment complex on Stevens Sausage Road in Smithfield. According to reports, Stephen was shot and killed by his 27-year-old brother, Joseph Earl Horton. The shooting took place on the front lawn of the complex, and despite first responders' efforts to save him, Stephen was pronounced dead at the scene.
The circumstances leading to the
shooting involved a domestic dispute between the two brothers. Authorities were called to the scene around 7 p.m., and upon arrival, they found Stephen lying in the front yard with a gunshot wound. After collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses, investigators consulted with the Johnston County District Attorney's Office. It was decided that no charges would be filed against Joseph Earl Horton at that time. The case remains under investigation by the Johnston County Sheriff's Office.
Stephen Patrick Horton was a white male who was well-known in his community. He was born on March 18, 1979, in Johnston County and had a background in construction. He was described as a "jack of all trades" and had a passion for wrestling and spending time with his nieces and nephews. Stephen is survived by his parents, Patricia Roberts and Jimmie Carol Horton, his daughter Morgan Haley, and his siblings Ray Roberts, Jeremy Roberts, Jessica Haskins, and Joseph Earl Horton.
The tragic incident has left the community in shock, and the investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the full details of what transpired that evening. The decision not to file charges against Joseph Earl Horton has raised questions and concerns among those who knew Stephen, as they await further updates from law enforcement.
