Derion Hinson, a 23-year-old African American male from Fairmont, North Carolina, tragically lost his life on May 7, 2016. The incident occurred during the town's May Day festival, a community event meant to bring joy and celebration. However, the day took a dark turn when Hinson was fatally shot in the parking lot of the Four Points Convenient Mart on North Walnut Street.
The shooting also injured another individual, Ricky Williams, who survived the attack.
The investigation into Hinson's death led to the arrest of Charlton Townsend, a 32-year-old man from the Fairmont area. Townsend was charged with second-degree murder in connection with Hinson's death, as well as two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, discharging a firearm in the city limits, and criminal damage to real property. Townsend was apprehended at a residence on Pleasant Hope Road and remains in the Robeson County jail under a $1 million bond.
The Fairmont Police Department, in collaboration with the Robeson County Sheriff's Office, worked diligently to bring Townsend to justice. Investigator Scott Jacobs, who was with the Fairmont Police Department at the time of the shooting, played a crucial role in the investigation. His efforts, along with those of the entire law enforcement team, were instrumental in securing the arrest and charges against Townsend.
The tragic loss of Derion Hinson has left a lasting impact on the Fairmont community. Hinson was remembered as a beloved member of St. John AME Church and was cherished by his family and friends. His untimely death serves as a somber reminder of the violence that can erupt even in the most unexpected places.
