Julie Michelle Hamaker Bittner, a 47-year-old white woman, tragically passed away on March 25, 2021, in Lumberton, North Carolina. Julie was born on October 24, 1973, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She was the daughter of Michael and Linda Loose Hamaker of Manheim. Julie was married to Ryan D. Eberly, and they had just celebrated their seventh wedding anniversary shortly before her untimely death. Julie was a devoted mother to six children and a grandmother to one.
She was known for her love of spending time with family and friends, snowmobiling, and her passion for prayer ministries.
Julie Michelle Hamaker Bittner's death was the result of a road rage incident on Interstate 95 in Lumberton. While traveling with her husband, Ryan Eberly, their vehicle was shot at by another driver. Julie was struck by a bullet and later succumbed to her injuries at the Southeastern Regional Medical Center. The incident was a random act of violence that shocked the community and left her family devastated.
The Robeson County Sheriff's Office quickly launched an investigation into the shooting. The suspect, identified as Dejywan R. Floyd, was arrested on the same day as Julie's funeral. Floyd was charged with first-degree murder and discharging a weapon into an occupied property. The arrest brought some measure of relief to Julie's family, who expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by law enforcement. The case against Floyd was considered strong, and the community's support played a crucial role in the timely apprehension of the suspect.
Julie Michelle Hamaker Bittner's death highlighted the dangers of road rage and the impact of such senseless violence on families and communities. Her family and friends continue to honor her memory through various initiatives and by raising awareness about the importance of road safety. The legal proceedings against Dejywan R. Floyd are ongoing, and Julie's family remains hopeful that justice will be served.
