In the early hours of a Tuesday morning in Goldsboro, North Carolina, the life of Otavis Gerquel McKinnon, a 37-year-old Black / African American male, was tragically cut short. On March 31, 2026, at approximately 12:43 a.m., officers from the Goldsboro Police Department were dispatched to the 300 block of Hollowell Avenue after reports of a shooting. Upon their arrival, they discovered McKinnon suffering from what appeared to be gunshot wounds.
Wayne County EMS personnel responded to the scene but were unable to save him, and he was pronounced deceased.
The Goldsboro Police Department's Investigative Services Bureau immediately began an active and ongoing investigation into the fatal shooting. At the time of the initial reports, law enforcement had not released any information regarding a possible suspect or the circumstances that led to the shooting. Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance, asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Otavis, affectionately known as “Black Tay from the J,” was remembered as someone who loved to joke and bring laughter to those around him. A well-known and loved member of his community, he was educated in Wayne County Public Schools and had attended Goldsboro High School. At the time of his passing, he was employed with the Mt. Olive Pickle Plant. He leaves behind his mother, a son, and several bonus children, siblings, and his loving girlfriend.
