Timothy David Barnwell, a 34-year-old male from Raleigh, North Carolina, tragically lost his life on April 27, 2007. His death was part of a string of violent crimes that shook the community. Barnwell was found outside his second-story apartment at Windsor Falls Apartments in North Raleigh, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was rushed to WakeMed hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators later determined that Barnwell had been targeted by
Samuel James Cooper, a man responsible for multiple homicides in the area. Cooper had entered Barnwell’s apartment, restrained him using handcuffs, duct tape, and hog-tying methods, and then proceeded to ransack the residence in search of drugs and money. In a desperate attempt to escape, Barnwell managed to jump over his balcony, but Cooper shot him five times, ending his life.
Authorities arrested Cooper seven months later in connection with a bank robbery. During the investigation, law enforcement linked him to Barnwell’s murder, along with four other killings. Cooper was ultimately convicted of five counts of first-degree murder, including Barnwell’s case. His trial was emotionally charged, with family members of the victims sharing their grief and loss. Barnwell’s parents, Phyllis and David Barnwell, spoke about the devastating impact of their son’s death, describing him as the answer to their prayers and a cherished part of their close-knit family.
Cooper’s conviction brought some closure to the families affected by his crimes, but the pain of losing loved ones remained. The case highlighted the dangers of violent crime in Raleigh and the importance of justice for victims and their families.
