Derrick L. Matthews, a 33-year-old African American male, tragically passed away on July 13, 2014, in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Derrick was born on June 28, 1981, to Kent Hines and Rebecker Mathews in Washington, DC. He was survived by his wife, Johnette Mathews, and their six children. Derrick's death occurred at his residence located at 102 Sal Court in the Hood Swamp Manor trailer park.
The circumstances surrounding Derrick's death were initially unclear, but it was later confirmed
that he was the victim of a home invasion. The Wayne County Sheriff's Office actively investigated the case as a homicide. Despite the efforts of law enforcement, no immediate arrests were made, and the investigation continued for some time.
In the aftermath of Derrick's death, the community of Goldsboro was left in shock and mourning. Friends and family gathered to pay their respects at the Poplar Grove Baptist Church in Faison, NC, where funeral services were held. Derrick was laid to rest in the Old Mill Cemetery in Goldsboro.
As the investigation progressed, authorities sought to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for the home invasion and subsequent murder of Derrick L. Matthews. The case remained open, with law enforcement urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Derrick's untimely death left a lasting impact on his family and the Goldsboro community. His memory was honored through various memorial events and tributes, as loved ones sought to cope with their loss and find closure in the face of such a senseless act of violence.
