DeAndre Marquise Ballard, a 23-year-old African American male, was fatally shot on the night of September 17, 2018, at the Campus Crossings at Durham apartment complex in Durham, North Carolina. Ballard, a senior at North Carolina Central University, was preparing to graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education with a concentration in fitness and wellness.
He was known for his friendly and respectful demeanor, often teaching aerobics classes and engaging positively with his peers and instructors.
The incident occurred around 10:15 p.m. when Durham police responded to a gunshot wound call. Ballard was found with a gunshot wound and was transported to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries the following morning. The security guard who shot Ballard claimed it was in self-defense, stating that Ballard attempted to break into cars and then tried to grab the guard's gun. However, Ballard's family and friends have questioned this account, describing him as someone who was terrified of guns and not prone to aggressive behavior.
Following Ballard's death, his family and friends have continued to seek answers and justice. They have organized protests and demanded more transparency from the police and the security company, NC Detective Agency. Despite the ongoing investigation, no charges have been filed against the security guard involved in the shooting.
The case remains a point of contention and sorrow for Ballard's loved ones, who believe that the true circumstances of his death have yet to be fully revealed. The community continues to remember Ballard for his positive contributions and the impact he had on those around him.
