In the early hours of June 30, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded at Rumors Lounge, located at 106 South Eastern Boulevard in Fayetteville, North Carolina. At approximately 1:09 a.m., officers from the Fayetteville Police Department responded to reports of a shooting at the nightclub. Upon arrival, they discovered two male victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Both individuals were promptly transported to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center for medical treatment.
Tragically, one of the victims, identified as 28-year-old Joseph Bell, succumbed to his injuries.
Joseph Bell, known in the music community by his stage name "Danger93," was a rapper hailing from Smithfield, North Carolina. His untimely death sent shockwaves through both the local community and the regional music scene. The second victim, identified as Travion McCain, sustained serious injuries but survived the shooting.
Following an intensive investigation, authorities identified the suspect as 28-year-old Noteilia Ekquawn Brown from Greenville, North Carolina. On July 12, 2024, Brown was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in connection with Joseph Bell's death. Additional charges against Brown included attempted first-degree murder, discharging a firearm to entice fear, and possession of a firearm by a felon. These charges stemmed from a prior 2018 conviction in Pitt County for possession of a stolen firearm.
The investigation revealed that a physical altercation had erupted between rival groups near the entrance of Rumors Lounge, leading to multiple gunshots being fired. Both Bell and McCain were struck during the exchange. Brown was apprehended in Knightdale, North Carolina, and subsequently held at the Cumberland County Jail with bail set at $1.05 million.
The Fayetteville Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. They have urged anyone with additional information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community assistance in resolving such cases. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (910) 483-8477 or via their online platform.
