Tonya Lashawn Sutton, a 39-year-old African American woman, tragically lost her life on May 21, 2015, in Raleigh, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. at an apartment complex located at 2413 Wesvill Court, off Lake Boone Trail near Rex Hospital. According to reports, Tonya was at another man's apartment when her husband, Michael Rashun Sutton, 42, arrived and fired several shots at the door.
Tonya attempted to flee but was ultimately gunned down by Michael outside the apartment complex. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and seeing Tonya's lifeless body on the sidewalk.
Michael Sutton was immediately identified as the primary suspect in the case. He was described as a 5 feet 10 inches tall African American man with a medium build, last seen wearing a blue shirt and khaki trousers. He fled the scene in a light blue, two-door 2005 Toyota Solara. A 911 call from a witness revealed the harrowing details of the shooting, including the fact that Tonya had been in another man's apartment moments before the attack. The caller described the fear and chaos as Michael shot through the door and pursued Tonya.
Following the incident, Raleigh police launched a manhunt for Michael Sutton. He was eventually arrested by Johnston County deputies and charged with murder, attempted murder, discharging a weapon into an occupied dwelling, and felony breaking and entering. Michael was held without bond at the Wake County jail. The couple's elementary school-aged daughter was also affected by the tragedy, as her school was placed on lockdown during the investigation.
The case garnered significant attention from the local community, with residents expressing their shock and fear over the violent incident. Neighbors recounted the terrifying moments when they heard the gunshots and saw Tonya's body on the ground. The arrest of Michael Sutton provided some relief to the community, allowing them to begin the process of healing and returning to their normal lives.
