Anthony Kiffone Charles, a 41-year-old African American male, was tragically killed on September 1, 2018, in Grover, North Carolina. The incident occurred at his home located at 113 Byron Place off Long Branch Road. According to reports, Charles was shot multiple times just after 4 a.m. on that fateful Saturday morning. The Cleveland County Sheriff's deputies arrived at the scene to find Charles dead from multiple gunshot wounds.
Witnesses informed investigators that Charles' brother, Cordell Marquis Yates, was responsible for the shooting. Yates, a 35-year-old African American male from Ramblewood Drive, Shelby, allegedly shot Charles and then fled the scene. Warrants were issued for Yates, who was already wanted by law enforcement for breaking probation related to a drug possession charge out of Gaston County. Yates has a long history of criminal activity, with convictions dating back 17 years, including common law robbery, burglary, breaking and entering, possession of stolen goods, and hit and run.
The investigation revealed that Charles' three children, ranging in age from 4 to 15, were present in the home at the time of the shooting. The children witnessed the violent act, which has undoubtedly caused them significant emotional distress. Cleveland County Sheriff Alan Norman expressed his sympathy for the family, stating that no conviction would bring their father back and that the children's focus should be on school and playing, not burying their father.
As of the latest reports, Yates remained at large, having successfully evaded arrest for over a year. Authorities believe that he may be receiving aid from someone, and they have warned that anyone harboring or aiding him could face criminal charges. The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office has urged anyone with information about the case to come forward.
