Robert Lucas "Luke" Gibby, a 22-year-old male from Bessemer City, North Carolina, tragically passed away on February 18, 2021. Luke was a student at Appalachian State University, majoring in business, and a graduate of Bessemer City High School. He was known for his larger-than-life personality and his love for making people laugh. Luke was also a member of the First Assembly of God in Gastonia.
On the night of February 18, 2021, Luke Gibby and Adam Kale Woods, a 19-year-old male from Kings Mountain, were found shot to death along Lowery Wood Road, north of Kings Mountain. The Gaston County Police launched an investigation into the double homicide, which also involved a third victim, Todd Payton Lee Waggoner, a 21-year-old male who sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital.
Through the investigative process, three suspects were identified and arrested. Michael Shane Barnes, a 19-year-old male from Taylorsville, and Kaleb Isiah Carver, a 21-year-old male from Taylorsville, were charged with two counts of First Degree Murder and one count of Attempted First Degree Murder. A third suspect, a juvenile, was also charged with the same offenses but their information was not released due to their age.
The investigation was supported by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the North Carolina SBI, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and various local sheriff's offices. The case remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to seek information from the public to aid in their efforts.
Luke Gibby's death has left a profound impact on his family, friends, and community. His memory is cherished by his parents, Shawn and Samantha Gibby, his siblings, and his extended family. The community mourns the loss of a young man who had a bright future ahead of him and who brought joy to those around him.
