Tammy Lynette Pearce, a 54-year-old woman from Wilson, NC, was tragically found dead on December 24, 2016, along with three other victims. The incident occurred at a home in the 2200 block of Banks Lane East, just east of Wilson. The other victims were identified as Paul Shane Pearce, 28, Selby Gene Outland, 47, and Dominique Nicole Privette, 23. All four victims lived at the home and were discovered by a family member.
The Wilson County Sheriff's Office reported that the shooting appeared to have happened late Friday night or early Saturday morning. The motive for the crime has not been determined, and no suspect information has been released. The investigation is ongoing, with deputies conducting interviews and following up on leads.
Three days after the incident, family members expressed frustration with the lack of details from investigators. Tammy Lynette Pearce's daughter, Nusaybah Yesmine, voiced her concerns about the safety of her family and the need for justice. She mentioned that her mother had been fighting Stage 4 cancer and had recently received an engagement ring as an early Christmas present. Despite the ongoing investigation, no information about possible suspects or motives has been released, leaving the family in a state of uncertainty and fear.
In February 2020, charges were dropped against Dereck Eugene Harris, a Wilson man who had been accused of the murders. Prosecutors cited witnesses changing their statements, avoiding subpoenas, and not showing up for court as reasons for dismissing the charges. The charges were dismissed without prejudice, meaning they could be reinstated if enough evidence is found. The families of the victims continue to wait for justice, hoping that the right person will be convicted for the crime. The investigation remains active, with authorities still searching for leads and offering rewards for information leading to an arrest.
