Deacon Vondell Bethune, a 66-year-old African American man, was tragically shot and killed inside his home on Buffalo Road in Selma, North Carolina, on August 11, 2019. Bethune was a respected deacon at White Oak Hill Missionary Baptist Church and was known for his dedication to helping those in need. His death came just hours after he had attended Sunday worship.
The suspect in the case, Alvin Demetrus Harris, who was 50 years old and also Bethune's second cousin and roommate, was
arrested and charged with murder. Harris turned himself in to the Johnston County Sheriff's Office following the shooting. According to reports, the incident occurred after Bethune asked Harris to move out, leading to an argument that turned violent. The Johnston County Sheriff's Office has not commented on a possible motive, and the investigation is ongoing.
The community and church members were deeply affected by Bethune's death. Pastor James Perry described Bethune as a man who served God and the community tirelessly. Bethune's stepsister, JoAnn Cornish, mentioned that despite the tragedy, the family still loves Harris and believes in forgiveness.
The case remains a poignant reminder of the impact of senseless violence and the importance of community and forgiveness in the face of tragedy.
