Shannelle Dawnica Patterson, a 31-year-old African American woman, tragically lost her life on April 10, 2021, in New Bern, North Carolina. Born on March 1, 1990, at Martin General Hospital in Williamston, she was the daughter of Antonio Lee Lacy and Kyne Dawn Patterson. Shannelle was a vibrant individual who loved spending time with her three sons and had aspirations of creating a clothing line for children and owning a food truck.
The circumstances surrounding Shannelle's death were
deeply distressing. On the morning of April 10, 2021, she was shot and killed at the BridgePointe Hotel and Marina in New Bern. The incident occurred in the presence of her child, adding to the tragedy. Shannelle was found with a single gunshot wound in the parking lot and was later pronounced dead at Carolina East Medical Center.
Eric Lipford, the father of Shannelle's child, was charged with her murder. The evidence gathered by the authorities was sufficient to charge Lipford with an open count of murder. The District Attorney, Scott Thomas, indicated that additional charges might be filed against Lipford as the investigation progressed. Lipford's family expressed disbelief and shock at the accusations, stating that they found it hard to believe he shot Shannelle intentionally.
The case left a profound impact on both Shannelle's family and Lipford's family. Shannelle's family mourned the loss of a beloved daughter, sister, and mother, while Lipford's family grappled with the reality of the charges against him. The incident highlighted the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the far-reaching effects it has on families and communities.
