Redmond Barnes Jr., a 39-year-old African American man, was tragically killed on September 1, 2018, in Wilson, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 10:07 p.m. at an apartment complex on Black Creek Road. Redmond Barnes Jr. was found dead from gunshot wounds, while his nephew, Elliot Barnes, 34, also suffered from gunshot wounds and later died despite first responders' efforts to save him.
The suspect, Shontez Barnes, 43, who is not related to the victims, was found armed on the roof of the apartment building and surrendered peacefully after a short standoff. Shontez Barnes was charged with two counts of murder and held without bond.
The case proceeded to trial, where Shontez Barnes was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of Redmond Barnes Jr. and Elliot Barnes. The jury, consisting of seven women and five men, deliberated for about an hour and 15 minutes before reaching their verdict. Shontez Barnes was sentenced to two life terms without the possibility of parole. The firearm possession conviction was consolidated with the second life sentence for the killing of Redmond Barnes Jr. During the trial, several Wilson police officers testified about the night of the murders, and the prosecution presented a mountain of evidence against Shontez Barnes.
The impact of the murders on the Barnes family was profound. Carla Barnes, the widow of Redmond Barnes Jr., spoke in court about the devastating effect the loss had on their three children and the entire family. Patricia Barnes, the mother of Elliot Barnes and sister of Redmond Barnes Jr., also attended the trial but did not speak. The community mourned the loss of Redmond and Elliot Barnes, with friends and family members expressing their grief and disbelief at the senseless violence. Minister Mosie Speight emphasized the need for unity and love to address the issue of gun violence in the community.
Shontez Barnes had a history of outbursts in court, including using racial epithets and displaying aggressive behavior towards his attorneys and judges. Despite his disruptive conduct, the trial proceeded, and justice was served for the Barnes family. The Wilson Police Department continued to investigate the case, urging anyone with information to come forward. The tragic deaths of Redmond Barnes Jr. and Elliot Barnes highlighted the ongoing issue of gun violence and the need for community efforts to prevent such incidents in the future.
