Jermaine “CoJack” Norment, a 43-year-old man, lost his life on the night of January 25, 2025, in his hometown of Whiteville, Tennessee. The fatal encounter occurred at a Shell gas station located off US-64. Norment, remembered by those who knew him for his outgoing and funny personality, was a beloved member of the community, known for being the life of every party and for his deep love for his family, especially his children.
On that Saturday evening, at approximately 11:30 p.m., Norment was at the gas station where he became engaged in a heated conversation with 29-year-old Montavis “Money Moe” Moore. The two were at separate gas pumps when the argument ensued. Surveillance footage from the station captured the moments leading up to the deadly shooting. As Norment turned to walk towards the gas station's entrance, he paused to continue the verbal exchange with Moore. It was at this moment that Moore reportedly pulled a pistol from his jacket pocket and fired a single shot, striking the unarmed Norment in the chest. Despite his injury, Norment attempted to reach the safety of the store but collapsed at the front door. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene and administered life-saving measures before transporting him to the Bolivar ER, where he was ultimately pronounced dead.
The investigation into Norment's death was swift, with the Whiteville Police Department quickly identifying Montavis Moore as the primary suspect. The clarity of the surveillance footage was instrumental in his rapid identification. Police located Moore's vehicle at his residence, which matched the one seen at the gas station. Whiteville Police Chief Ben Davis publicly credited the community's cooperation in the quick apprehension of Moore.
Following his arrest, Montavis Moore was faced with multiple serious charges, including first-degree murder, unlawful possession of a firearm during a dangerous felony, and reckless endangerment. Law enforcement officials have indicated that both Norment and Moore were affiliated with gangs, although it has not been determined if the fatal altercation was directly related to gang activities. The incident has left the Whiteville community in mourning for a man described as kind and generous, forever changing the lives of those who knew and loved him.
