Leroy Antonio Barnes, a 52-year-old African American man, was tragically killed on July 11, 2019, in Greenville, North Carolina. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning when a Shotspotter alert detected gunfire in the 1700 block of South Pitt Street. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Barnes suffering from a gunshot wound.
Despite the efforts of first responders, Barnes was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Greenville Police Department quickly identified two suspects in connection with the murder. James Zevantron Johnson Jr., a 31-year-old man, was arrested later that morning and charged with an open count of murder. Johnson was known to Barnes, and the police believe that the shooting was targeted and not a random act of violence. Johnson was booked into the Pitt County Detention Center without bond.
In addition to Johnson, 28-year-old Cameron Randell Whichard was also charged in connection with the murder. Whichard was arrested and charged with felony accessory after the fact, as detectives believe he helped Johnson leave the scene of the crime. Whichard was also booked into the Pitt County Detention Center under a $200,000 bond.
The investigation into Barnes' death revealed that the motive behind the shooting was likely personal, as Barnes and Johnson were acquainted. The case garnered significant attention in the local community, and the police continued to follow up on numerous leads to ensure justice for Barnes and his family. The tragic loss of Leroy Antonio Barnes serves as a stark reminder of the impact of gun violence and the importance of community safety.
