Detry Horne, a 51-year-old man from Lilesville, North Carolina, tragically died on March 31, 2016, in Columbus, North Carolina. He was found dead inside his truck on the ramp to Highway 74 from Highway 108, having suffered an apparent gunshot wound. Horne was a truck driver and maintenance technician, known for his friendly demeanor and love for cooking and gardening.
The investigation into Horne's death led to the arrest of three individuals: Quintae Dayrelle Edwards, Kayla Lynn Black, and Kwamae Fernanders. Edwards and Fernanders were charged with first-degree murder, while Black remained a person of interest in the case. Authorities believe they know the motive behind the murder, though specific details have not been disclosed. The suspects were linked to Horne's death through surveillance footage and witness testimonies.
In September 2022, Kwame Fernanders was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of Detry Horne. Fernanders, along with his accomplices, had been involved in a crime spree across three states before being arrested in Florida. The testimony of Fernanders' girlfriend, who was present during the murder and subsequent crimes, played a crucial role in securing the conviction.
The loss of Detry Horne deeply affected his family and community, who remembered him for his kindness, humor, and dedication to his loved ones. His brother, Terry Horne, expressed gratitude for the charges brought against the suspects but emphasized the importance of remembering Detry's positive impact on those around him.