Joshua Rashawn O'Neal, a 22-year-old African American male, was tragically killed on September 9, 2016, in Greenville, North Carolina. The incident occurred at 116 Baker Drive in the River Road Estates Mobile Home Park. On the night of the crime, deputies and troopers from the North Carolina Highway Patrol responded to a 911 call reporting a shooting. Upon arrival, they found Joshua Rashawn O'Neal and immediately began lifesaving efforts, which were continued by emergency medical personnel.
Unfortunately, O'Neal was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation revealed that the crime was initially intended to be a robbery that escalated into a homicide. The perpetrators, who were acquaintances or possibly friends of the victim, knew there was cash at the residence and planned to steal it. However, the situation quickly turned violent, leading to O'Neal's death.
Several arrests were made in connection with the murder. Jermaine Anthony Norfleet, 25, of Greenville; Keimon Rashae Blount, 22, of Plymouth; and 16-year-old Zaquan Lavon Patrick, of Greenville, were charged with first-degree murder, attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon, and first-degree burglary. Another suspect, Jeffrey Lamar Sawyer, 24, of Plymouth, was arrested shortly after the crime was committed.
The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office, with the assistance of other law enforcement agencies, played a crucial role in making these arrests. The suspects were apprehended through coordinated efforts between the Greenville Police Department's Fugitive Task Force, the Washington County Sheriff's Office, and the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office. All suspects were held without bond, and the investigation continued to ensure justice for Joshua Rashawn O'Neal.
