On the evening of January 24, 2026, the life of 55-year-old Daryl Ellison of Thomasville, North Carolina, was tragically cut short in a fatal shooting. The incident occurred at approximately 6:24 p.m. outside a Sheetz convenience store located at 1810 Liberty Drive in Thomasville. When officers from the Thomasville Police Department arrived at the scene, they discovered Ellison with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Ellison was a man known and loved within his community, described by his family as a great person who helped not only his family and friends but the wider community as well. His personality had made him a familiar and welcome presence to many.
The investigation into the shooting quickly led detectives to identify a suspect: 50-year-old Leon Marcel Marsh of Lexington, North Carolina. Later that same evening, Marsh voluntarily surrendered to the Lexington Police Department. He was subsequently charged with one count of murder in connection with Ellison's death. Marsh is currently being held at the Davidson County jail without bond.
During a court appearance, it was revealed by the Davidson County District Attorney's Office that the motive for the shooting was believed to be Marsh's suspicion that Ellison was having an affair with his wife. Prosecutors stated that Marsh is accused of shooting Ellison multiple times, including in the head. Ellison's grieving family was present at the courthouse, visibly emotional as they begin their quest for justice for a man they described as a strong and integral part of their family. A judge has ordered that Marsh have no contact with Ellison's family. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 9, 2026. The family has expressed their determination to see that justice is served for their loved one.
