Kena McMillan, a 41-year-old African American woman, tragically lost her life on October 24, 2015, in Chadbourn, North Carolina. The incident occurred at her home on South Wilkes Street, where she was fatally shot in the chest with a shotgun during an altercation with Wendell Hardie, a 42-year-old African American man. McMillan was taken to Columbus Regional Medical Center, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Wendell Hardie, who was the father of McMillan's children, was arrested
and charged with first-degree murder. The altercation that led to the shooting took place in the presence of at least two of their children, who fortunately were not injured. Hardie was apprehended at Columbus Regional Medical Center, where he was treated for cuts to his head before being booked into the Columbus County Detention Center.
The case garnered significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the involvement of the children. Hardie was held without bail, and the legal proceedings against him began shortly after his arrest. The Columbus County Coroner, Lynwood Cartrette, confirmed the details of the incident and the cause of McMillan's death.
The tragic death of Kena McMillan highlighted issues of domestic violence and its devastating impact on families. The community of Chadbourn mourned her loss and rallied around her children, offering support and assistance during this difficult time.