Kenneth Simmons, a 71-year-old male from Macon, NC, tragically passed away on February 2, 2012. The circumstances surrounding his death were initially unclear, leading to a thorough investigation by local authorities.
The investigation revealed that Kenneth Simmons was murdered on October 28, 2023, by Jerry T. Upson, a 43-year-old resident of Shelton, NC. Surveillance footage captured Upson entering and leaving Simmons' home with a handgun on the day of the murder.
Simmons' brother, Martin, discovered him on the couch with an apparent gunshot wound to the head and immediately contacted the police.
Jerry Upson was subsequently charged with first-degree murder and held without bail. The trial began on October 24, 2024, and concluded with Upson being found guilty of first-degree murder on November 8, 2024. On December 17, 2024, Judge Daniel Goodell sentenced Upson to life without parole under the state's "three strikes" law, which mandates life sentences for those convicted of three serious felonies. Upson immediately appealed the verdict and sentence.
The case drew significant attention due to the brutality of the crime and the subsequent legal proceedings. The community of Macon, NC, and beyond mourned the loss of Kenneth Simmons, a respected member of his community. His family and friends continue to honor his memory and seek justice for his untimely death.
