Lares Santwan Blue, a 31-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on April 23, 2020, in Raeford, North Carolina. According to reports, Lares was shot and killed at the Marathon Lucky Stop gas station in Raeford. Deputies from the Hoke County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a shooting along the 2100 block of U.S. 401 Business just before 3:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they found Lares Santwan Blue unresponsive in the parking lot of the gas station.
He was subsequently taken to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The investigation into Lares Santwan Blue's death led to the arrest of Willie Davis McArn Jr., a 31-year-old male from Raeford. McArn was charged with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting. The Hoke County Sheriff's Office confirmed that the investigation was ongoing at the time of the arrest.
Lares Santwan Blue's death has left a significant impact on his family and community. He is survived by his son, Ari Reeves-Oatis, his parents, Charles and Dorothy Blue, and several siblings. The family held a funeral service for Lares on April 29, 2020, at the Pauline T. Buie Chapel in Raeford.
The circumstances surrounding Lares Santwan Blue's death have raised questions about security and safety at the gas station where the incident occurred. Some reports have suggested that there may have been security negligence, which could potentially lead to further legal actions or litigations. The community continues to seek justice for Lares Santwan Blue and hopes for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind his tragic death.
