Mikell Lamar Sheridan, a 20-year-old African American male from Rocky Mount, NC, tragically lost his life on January 6, 2019. The incident occurred around 4:40 p.m. on Union Street, where officers responded to gunfire. Upon arrival, they found Sheridan suffering from gunshot wounds, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The use of "ShotSpotter" technology, a series of microphones designed to detect the sound of gunshots and pinpoint their location, played a crucial role in alerting the
police to the gunfire.
In the aftermath of the shooting, four teenagers were arrested in connection with Sheridan's death. Khalil Jywon Davis, 18, Tracy Lamont Collins Jr., 18, Shymond Kiheem Williams, 17, and a 15-year-old juvenile were each charged with first-degree murder. Collins and Williams were taken to Nash County Jail and held without bond, while the juvenile was taken to Wake County Juvenile Detention Center and also held without bond. The police did not release a photo of the juvenile suspect.
The case against Tracy Lamont Collins Jr. proceeded to trial, where he was found guilty of first-degree murder. The evidence presented at trial included testimony from witnesses who identified Collins as one of the individuals involved in the shooting. Additionally, a cellphone belonging to Collins was found at the scene, which contained incriminating text messages and photographs. Despite Collins' defense arguing for a dismissal of the charges and a lesser included offense of second-degree murder, the court upheld the first-degree murder conviction.
The tragic death of Mikell Sheridan and the subsequent arrests and trial highlight the impact of gun violence on the community of Rocky Mount. The use of technology and thorough investigative work by the police played a significant role in bringing the suspects to justice. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the root causes of violence and working towards a safer community for all.
