57-year-old Emmanuel Kwame Gbedee, an Uber driver from Benson, North Carolina, was tragically shot and killed while working in the early hours of January 12, 2025. Authorities discovered his body in the backseat of his vehicle near the 2500 block of Holly Grove Road in Benson. His car’s flashers were on when law enforcement arrived at the scene. Investigators believe that Gbedee had picked up 18-year-old Tray’vian Brown shortly before the fatal incident.
There was no prior association between Gbedee and Brown, and the motive for the shooting remains unknown.
Brown, a resident of Dunn, North Carolina, was arrested and charged with murder and robbery with a dangerous weapon. He appeared briefly in court on January 16, 2025, where his next court date was scheduled for February 6. He is currently being held at the Johnston County detention center without bond.
Gbedee’s family is devastated by the loss. His son, Emmanuel Jr., described his father as a pillar in the community and expressed the heartbreak of losing him so suddenly. The tragedy was especially difficult for the family, as they had been preparing to celebrate Gbedee’s 30th wedding anniversary. Instead of a joyous occasion, they now find themselves mourning his untimely death. Despite the sorrow, the family has decided to continue with the anniversary celebration, transforming it into a tribute to Gbedee’s memory and the time he shared with his wife.
Uber has responded to the incident, stating that they have banned Brown’s account and are cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation. The company expressed condolences to Gbedee’s family and loved ones as they navigate this difficult time.
The investigation remains ongoing as officials work to determine the circumstances leading to the shooting. The Gbedee family hopes that Brown will reflect on his actions and grow from his mistakes. They lament the fact that such a young individual has thrown away his future with this senseless act of violence.
