Lawrence Ervin McGee, a 47-year-old man from Connelly Springs, NC, tragically lost his life on July 22, 2019. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning when McGee was riding a four-wheeler on Old North Carolina 18. According to reports, McGee allegedly ran over two individuals on another person's property. In response, a third person, Andrew Carlos Smith, fired multiple shots at McGee, ultimately resulting in his death.
Andrew Carlos Smith, 28, was subsequently charged with
murder in connection to the death of Lawrence Ervin McGee. Smith claimed that he acted in self-defense, stating that he used his concealed carry weapon to protect himself, his friends, and his family. Smith was held at the Burke-Catawba District Confinement Facility in Morganton without bond, and his next court date was scheduled for July 24, 2019.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations assisted Burke County deputies in investigating the case. Sheriff Steve Whisenant noted that the initial information provided did not completely align with the evidence collected at the scene. As a result, the investigation continued to determine the exact circumstances surrounding McGee's death.
Lawrence Ervin McGee was described as an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed gardening, hunting, and fishing. He was survived by his daughter, Kayla Smith Midgett, and several grandchildren. McGee's family and friends mourned his loss and sought justice for his untimely death.
