Deshawn Jermaine Tatem, a 39-year-old African American male, was tragically shot and killed on November 30, 2017, in Concord, North Carolina. The incident occurred at Sarah's Pet Spa on Winecoff School Road, near an elementary school. According to reports, the altercation began as a verbal dispute between Tatem and another individual known to him. The situation escalated, resulting in Tatem being shot once and succumbing to his injuries at the scene.
Witnesses reported hearing screams
and seeing friends of the victim attempting to break into the spa to reach him. The chaotic scene unfolded as neighbors described the distressing moments following the shooting. The Concord Police Department confirmed that Tatem was shot during an altercation and that he knew the shooter. They assured the community that there was no ongoing threat, as the incident was isolated between two known parties.
The shooter was identified as Sarah Shoe, the owner of the pet spa. Shoe claimed that Tatem forcefully entered her business while her boyfriend and two young grandchildren were inside. A fight broke out between Tatem and Shoe's boyfriend, Christopher Gray. During the altercation, Shoe retrieved a gun and, after Tatem allegedly continued to advance towards her, she fatally shot him. The Cabarrus County District Attorney's Office later determined that Shoe acted in self-defense and decided not to pursue charges against her.
The investigation revealed that Tatem, also known as "The General" in a group called the "Yahshua Movement," had a history of confrontational behavior. On the day of the incident, Tatem reportedly threatened Gray and refused to leave the premises despite multiple warnings. The situation escalated to physical violence, prompting Shoe to take drastic measures to protect herself and her family.
The case drew significant attention due to the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the involvement of a business owner defending her property. The decision not to file charges against Shoe was based on the evidence presented, which supported her claim of self-defense. The community was left grappling with the tragic loss of Tatem and the legal implications of the incident.
