On September 26, 2024, 20-year-old Skyler "Skylabelle" Pattillo tragically lost her life in Wilmington, North Carolina. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. in the 300 block of Campus Cove, where a firearm, mistakenly believed to be unloaded, was discharged, inflicting life-threatening injuries on Skyler. She was promptly transported to Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center but, despite medical efforts, succumbed to her injuries.
In connection with this incident, 21-year-old Wilmington resident Triston Spencer was arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter. Authorities determined that Spencer had mishandled the firearm, leading to the fatal discharge. He was held in the New Hanover County jail under a $150,000 secured bond. The Wilmington Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and has urged gun owners to ensure firearms are properly unloaded and secured when handling or cleaning them.
Skyler was born on July 2, 2004, in Wake County, North Carolina, to parents Stephanie and Shane Pattillo of Angier. She is survived by her sister, Taia Pattillo of Wilmington; grandparents, Ronnie and Sue Pattillo of Fuquay-Varina, and Kay and Vernon Knight of Hampstead; her beloved dog, Queen; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members. A service celebrating her life was held on October 8, 2024, at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home in Angier, where family and friends gathered to honor her memory.
Skyler was a licensed esthetician who had recently expanded her small business into its own dedicated location, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her craft. She was remembered by friends and family as a bright, outgoing individual with a genuine and loyal nature. Her untimely passing has left a profound void in the lives of those who knew and loved her.
