In the quiet town of Arlington, Tennessee, the morning of December 16, 2020, brought a grim discovery that would shatter the community's sense of peace. A passing deputy on patrol noticed the front door of a residence on Noble Oak Drive standing open. This seemingly small detail led to a welfare check that would uncover a tragic scene. Inside the home, authorities found 54-year-old Samuel Hare, a local businessman, deceased in an upstairs bedroom. It was determined that he had been fatally shot.
The initial investigation into the death of the male victim quickly transitioned into a homicide case as details emerged. It was discovered that not only had Mr. Hare been killed, but his vehicle and other personal items had also been stolen from his home. The Shelby County Sheriff's Office diligently pursued leads and worked to piece together the events that led to this violent act. The community was left in a state of shock and mourning for a man described by those who knew him as kindhearted with a great sense of humor.
Months later, a significant breakthrough in the case brought some measure of hope for justice. In April 2021, the Shelby County District Attorney General announced that a grand jury had returned indictments against five individuals in connection with the death of Samuel Hare. Four of the suspects—Demerion Golden, 24, Donquez Dabney, 23, Brooke Lurry, 21, and Frederick Ware, 24—were charged with first-degree murder, especially aggravated robbery, especially aggravated burglary, and employment of a firearm in the commission of a dangerous felony. All four were taken into custody.
A fifth individual, Donna Bailey, 39, who was identified as the mother of suspect Frederick Ware, was also indicted on felony charges of accessory after the fact. The case was assigned to the District Attorney's Crime Strategies & Narcotics Prosecution Unit, which specializes in handling cases involving violent crimes and gang-related activities. The indictments marked a crucial step forward in the legal process, aiming to hold those allegedly responsible for the death of Samuel Hare accountable for their actions.
