On March 3, 2024, at approximately 12:40 a.m., three armed intruders broke into the home of 58-year-old Jerry Lee "Buck" Driggers on U.S. Highway 70 near the Buckhorn Road intersection in Mebane, North Carolina. The assailants, dressed in black clothing and ski masks, demanded money from the residents. In an act of self-defense, Driggers fired a shotgun at the intruders, striking one of them. The assailants returned fire, hitting Driggers twice.
He was transported to Duke University Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries during surgery.
Following the exchange of gunfire, all three intruders fled the scene. Deputies later found one suspect, 28-year-old Clarence Brandon Hayes of Durham, in a nearby parking lot, suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen inflicted by Driggers. Hayes underwent surgery and was subsequently charged with first-degree murder, first-degree burglary, first-degree kidnapping, felony conspiracy, and injury to real property. In July 2024, Hayes pled guilty to second-degree murder and other related charges; he awaits sentencing.
The investigation continued, leading to the arrests of three additional suspects between late July and mid-August 2024. Demarcus Tatum, 28, of Durham; Christopher Hamlett, 49, of Hillsborough; and Scotty Pleasants, 42, of Creedmoor, were each charged with first-degree murder, first-degree burglary, first-degree kidnapping, and felony conspiracy. Tatum also faced an additional charge of possession of a firearm by a felon. All three are being held in the Orange County Detention Center without bond.
Driggers, born on May 28, 1965, in El Paso, Texas, was known for his love of the beach, fishing, and spending time with friends at local establishments. He is survived by his mother, Margie Driggers; his twin sister, Terry Duncan; and his nephew, Glen Duncan. A memorial service was held on March 16, 2024, at McClure Funeral Home in Mebane.
The tragic incident has deeply affected the Mebane community, highlighting concerns about home invasions and personal safety. Sheriff Charles Blackwood extended condolences to Driggers' family and emphasized the ongoing efforts to bring all responsible parties to justice. The case underscores the dangers associated with violent home invasions and the profound impact such crimes have on victims and their loved ones.
