Chartara LaVetra Courtney, a 43-year-old African American woman from Harrisburg, North Carolina, tragically lost her life on January 13, 2025. She was shot and killed in the driveway of a home in the Providence Manor neighborhood. Authorities later identified the suspect as 47-year-old Willie Wimbley, a man with whom Courtney had previously been in a dating relationship.
The Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Office reported that Wimbley fired multiple rounds at deputies after killing Courtney before ultimately taking his own life.
The incident unfolded when Cabarrus County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 call about a dispute in the neighborhood. Upon arrival, they witnessed Wimbley fatally shooting Courtney. As deputies attempted to intervene, Wimbley turned his weapon on them, prompting a return of fire. Despite their efforts, Wimbley succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the deputies involved were placed on administrative leave, following standard protocol, while the State Bureau of Investigation conducted an independent review of the case.
Courtney, a native of Richmond County, had built a life dedicated to her family and career. She was a Division Manager for Waffle House and an active member of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Graniteville, where she participated in the Youth Choir. She is survived by her children, Janae C. Williams, Quailond A. Newman, RaShawn Wilson, and Tavares D. Jones, as well as her parents, siblings, and extended family. Funeral services were scheduled to take place at Good Shepherd Baptist Church, with interment at Mt. Transfiguration Baptist Church Cemetery.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Courtney’s death have left the community in mourning. Investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, though preliminary findings suggest a history between Courtney and Wimbley. The Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
