On November 9, 2024, 26-year-old Makayla La'Shea Harrison was found deceased in her Asheville, North Carolina, residence. Responding to a welfare check at her home on South French Broad Avenue around 11 a.m., Asheville police officers discovered Harrison's body, identifying a gunshot wound as the cause of death.
Authorities quickly identified her boyfriend, 34-year-old Darren Lamont Clayton, as the primary suspect in this case.
Clayton, who has an extensive criminal history and was flagged as a violent offender, had been arrested on October 28 on charges including assault on a female and possession of a stolen firearm but was released shortly before Harrison's death.
A search for Clayton was initiated following the discovery of Harrison's body. On November 13, he was apprehended in Jacksonville, North Carolina, over 350 miles from Asheville. Clayton now faces a charge of first-degree murder for Harrison's death.
Harrison's tragic death has deeply affected the Asheville community. A graduate of Asheville High School's Class of 2017, she participated in dance, theater, and ROTC. She later became a kindergarten teacher's assistant at Vance Elementary School and also worked as an after-school teacher's assistant at the Chosen POD at the Arthur Edington Education and Career Center. Her passion for children and vibrant personality made her a beloved figure among students and colleagues.
This incident has highlighted concerns about domestic violence in the community. Asheville Police Captain Joe Silberman emphasized the importance of seeking help, stating, "Domestic violence continues to take too many lives in our community. We want anyone experiencing abuse to know that there are resources available."
Harrison's funeral service was held on November 16, 2024, at Tried Stone Missionary Baptist Church, where family, friends, and community members gathered to honor her life and legacy.
