Akesia Michelle Toney, a 37-year-old African American woman, was tragically killed on December 31, 2013, in Louisburg, North Carolina. Akesia and her 16-year-old daughter, Brianna Nicole Jones, were found dead in their home on 1755 West River Road in Franklinton. The incident occurred when Akesia's estranged husband, Ricky Junior Toney, 34, along with his 16-year-old brother, Joey Kearney, broke into the house.
Akesia had previously obtained a restraining order against Ricky Toney in October, citing threats to her life and possession of a sawed-off shotgun.
On the night of the incident, Franklin County deputies were dispatched to the house at approximately 2:30 a.m. after Akesia called 911. The call was abruptly disconnected, and when deputies arrived, they found the lights on but received no response at the door. Upon entering the house, they discovered signs of a struggle and found Akesia and Brianna dead from apparent gunshot wounds in the master bedroom.
A six-hour search ensued across three counties before officers located Ricky Toney and Joey Kearney in Warren County. During the confrontation, gunfire was exchanged, resulting in Ricky Toney's fatal injury. Joey Kearney was also wounded but not seriously. After receiving medical treatment, Kearney was taken into custody and held without bond on charges of first-degree burglary, first-degree kidnapping, and two counts of first-degree murder.
The community was deeply affected by the loss of Akesia and Brianna. Nearly a thousand friends, family members, and coworkers attended a memorial service at Louisburg High School to honor their lives. The service featured contemporary gospel music, Bible readings, and heartfelt comments from those who knew them best. Akesia's coworker, Kenda Greene, emphasized the importance of addressing domestic violence, highlighting the tragic circumstances that led to their deaths.
The investigation into the double homicide revealed that Ricky Toney had a history of domestic violence and had threatened Akesia's life on multiple occasions. The restraining order she obtained was not enough to protect her and her daughter from the fatal attack. The case brought attention to the need for stronger measures to prevent domestic violence and protect victims from their abusers.
