Derrick Bethea, a 30-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on June 4, 2011, in Laurinburg, North Carolina. Derrick Bethea was fatally shot outside a convenience store in Laurinburg. The incident occurred around 10:45 a.m. when Derrick Bethea and another man, William McKoy, were leaving the Brothers in the Hood market at the corner of Aberdeen and Main streets. A man opened fire on them with an assault rifle, resulting in the deaths of both Derrick Bethea and William McKoy.
Both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
Derrick Bethea's father, Tony Smith, described the moment he realized his son had died. He saw his son lying on the ground and was overcome with grief. The police reported that a person of interest turned himself in and was taken into custody, but no charges were filed at that time. The relationship between the person of interest and the victims was not disclosed.
The community of Laurinburg was deeply affected by the loss of Derrick Bethea and William McKoy. The incident was one of several homicides that had taken place in the area within a short period, raising concerns about violence in the community. Derrick Bethea's funeral services were held at Unionville Missionary Baptist Church, and he was laid to rest in Hillside Memorial Park. The investigation into the shooting continued, but further details about arrests, suspects, or legal proceedings were not readily available.
