Cornell Ward, a 31-year-old male from Hope Mills, North Carolina, tragically died on December 20, 2020, from a gunshot wound. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning near the 2900 block of Cage Street in Hope Mills. The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of the shooting and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ward's death.
As part of their investigation, the Sheriff's Office identified Jocephus Jones III, an 18-year-old male,
as a person of interest in the case. Jones was described as standing 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighing approximately 190 pounds. Authorities sought the public's help in locating Jones to question him about his involvement in the shooting.
Despite the ongoing investigation, no arrests have been made in connection with Cornell Ward's death. The case remains open, and the Sheriff's Office continues to seek information from the community to help solve the crime. Anyone with information related to the incident was encouraged to contact the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office or Crime Stoppers.
Cornell Ward was known to those who knew him as an aspiring chef who worked at various restaurants, including Applebee's and AMC Dine-in theaters. His untimely death has left a void in the lives of his family, friends, and the community.
The investigation into Cornell Ward's death highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in solving violent crimes and bringing justice to victims and their families. The hope remains that with continued efforts and community cooperation, the case will eventually be resolved, providing closure to those affected by this tragic event.
