James Anthony Lee Jr., a 21-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on July 23, 2019, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. James was working as a Domino's pizza delivery driver when he was shot and killed during a delivery. The incident occurred in the Branch Avenue area of Roanoke Rapids. James was found in the driver's seat of his car, having been shot three times.
James Anthony Lee Jr. was a hardworking individual who had recently started working for Domino's Pizza.
He was also employed by the Virginia Department of Corrections and Walmart. James was known for his dedication and commitment to providing for his family. His untimely death left his family and community in deep sorrow.
The investigation into James's death led to the arrest of two suspects. Nashown Laquan Alston, a 26-year-old male from Roanoke Rapids, was arrested and charged with murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon. He was held without bond and made his first court appearance on July 31, 2019. The second suspect, Courtez Malik Powell, an 18-year-old male, was also arrested and charged with murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon.
The motive behind the shooting appeared to be robbery, as James was killed over a few dollars and a pizza. Halifax County Sheriff Wes Tripp expressed his condolences to James's family and highlighted the senselessness of the crime. The community was deeply affected by the loss of James, who was described as an honest and hardworking man.
The arrests of Nashown Laquan Alston and Courtez Malik Powell brought some measure of justice to James's family, but the pain of losing a loved one in such a tragic manner remained. The case underscored the need for addressing violence and ensuring the safety of individuals in their communities.
