Clyde William Benfield, a 69-year-old Caucasian male from Mount Holly, North Carolina, tragically died on January 22, 2014. Clyde was an avid sportsman, a proud father and grandfather, and a United States Navy veteran. He was known to have a collection of firearms and was an avid hunter. Clyde's death was part of a tragic murder-suicide incident that also claimed the life of his wife, 64-year-old Terri Benfield.
On the morning of January 22, 2014, police were called to the Benfield
residence on Michelle Lane in Mount Holly. Investigators discovered that Clyde had shot his wife, Terri, before taking his own life. The couple's 5-year-old grandson was present in the home at the time but fortunately did not witness the incident as he was asleep. The investigation revealed that there had been a history of verbal abuse between Clyde and Terri, although no prior reports had been made to the police.
The tragic event shocked the community, as neighbors and acquaintances described Clyde and Terri as quiet and seemingly good people. The couple's troubled relationship was not widely known outside of their immediate family. Following the incident, the police conducted a thorough investigation, but no additional suspects or arrests were made, as it was determined to be a murder-suicide.
The Benfield family, including Clyde's children Karen Elaine Benfield and Mark William Benfield, were left to grieve the loss of both their parents. Clyde was laid to rest at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery in Mount Holly, and a service was held to celebrate the lives of Clyde and Terri Benfield at the Community Pentecostal Center in Stanley.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for support systems for those experiencing domestic issues. The community continues to remember Clyde and Terri Benfield and offer support to their grieving family.
