On October 19, 2024, at approximately 9:10 p.m., High Point Police Department officers responded to a reported shooting at a residence on Ridgebrooke Drive in High Point, North Carolina. Upon arrival, they found 32-year-old Hasson Dwayne Williams suffering from a single gunshot wound to the head. Williams was transported to Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Initial investigations revealed that two individuals were handling a firearm inside the home when it discharged, fatally wounding Williams. Witnesses, including Williams' fiancée, indicated that the shooting was accidental, involving a cousin of Williams. Due to the involvement of a relative of a City of High Point elected official, the High Point Police Department requested the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to assume responsibility for the case to ensure impartiality.
High Point Mayor Cyril Jefferson later confirmed that the individual involved was his wife's cousin, expressing deep sorrow over the incident and emphasizing his commitment to transparency. He stated that neither he nor his wife were present at the scene during the shooting but were informed shortly afterward. Mayor Jefferson and his wife have been mourning the loss and have cooperated fully with the investigation.
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with Williams' death. The SBI continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, with the family's cooperation. Authorities have not disclosed further details, and the community awaits the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Williams, originally from Laurinburg, North Carolina, was residing in Greensboro at the time of his passing. He is remembered fondly by family and friends for his protective nature and dedication to his loved ones. Funeral services were held on October 26, 2024, at Nazareth Missionary Baptist Church in Wagram, North Carolina, followed by interment at Hillside Memorial Park in Laurinburg.
The tragic incident has prompted discussions within the High Point community about firearm safety and the importance of responsible gun ownership. Local leaders and residents are calling for increased awareness and preventive measures to avoid such accidents in the future. The investigation remains active, and anyone with pertinent information is encouraged to contact the SBI.
