On a Sunday evening in May, a burst of gunfire shattered the peace at a gas station in Chesapeake, Virginia, leaving a Hampton man's life tragically cut short. Jonte Damario Wilson, a 36-year-old male, was found suffering from a life-threatening gunshot wound on May 5, 2024, at an Exxon gas station located in the 5100 block of West Military Highway, across from the Hampton Roads Executive Airport.
Despite the efforts of first responders, Wilson was pronounced dead at the scene.
The day following the fatal shooting, Chesapeake police apprehended a suspect in connection with the incident. Deondre Thorne, also 36 years old, was arrested and taken into custody. Authorities charged Thorne with several serious felonies, including second-degree murder, use of a firearm in the commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to police, Thorne had fled the scene before their arrival. He was arraigned two days after the shooting as the police department's investigation into the circumstances that led to the deadly encounter continued.
Jonte Wilson was remembered by friends and family as a loving father and a man who brought good vibes with his presence. His funeral services were held on May 18, 2024, at Faith Harvest Church in Shelby, North Carolina, with his burial taking place at Mountain Rest Cemetery in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. He is survived by his parents, several children, and a host of other relatives and friends who mourn his sudden and violent death. While an arrest has been made, the case against Deondre Thorne is proceeding through the legal system.
