Winfred Alfonzo Worthy, a 62-year-old African American man from Spring Lake, North Carolina, tragically died on May 1, 2018. He was shot outside his home while going to get his mail. The incident occurred in front of the family business, Worthy Brothers Towing, where Winfred and his siblings grew up. According to Spring Lake Police Chief Troy McDuffie, it appeared that Winfred was targeted as he was not robbed.
The assailant, who was inside a green Lincoln Town Car with gray rocker panels, fired several shots into Winfred's upper body before fleeing the scene.
The investigation into Winfred's death led to the arrest of two suspects. The first arrest was made shortly after the incident, and a second arrest followed a few days later. Both suspects were charged with first-degree murder. The family, still in shock, struggled to come to terms with the senseless violence that took Winfred's life. His younger brother, Clarence Worthy, expressed disbelief and sorrow over the tragic event.
Despite the arrests, the family and the community continued to seek justice for Winfred. The case drew significant attention, and law enforcement worked diligently to gather evidence and build a strong case against the suspects. The investigation highlighted the challenges faced by small communities in dealing with violent crimes and the impact such incidents have on families and neighbors.
Winfred's death left a void in the community and his family, who remembered him as a kind and hardworking individual. The loss was deeply felt by those who knew him, and his legacy lived on through the memories of those who loved him.