On February 19, 2024, at approximately 11:02 a.m., the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of gunfire and a residential fire in the 1900 block of Evans Dairy Road near Fayetteville, North Carolina. Upon arrival, deputies encountered an active shooting scene and discovered two individuals with gunshot wounds. One of the victims, 69-year-old Richard Carr Yarborough, was pronounced deceased at the scene, while the second victim, identified as David Matthews, sustained
life-threatening injuries and was transported to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center for treatment.
The suspect, 45-year-old Matias Matthew Bagby, fled the scene but was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit near Interstate 95. Bagby was subsequently charged with first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, two counts of shooting into an occupied dwelling, and breaking and entering with intent to terrorize. He is currently held at the Cumberland County Detention Center without bail.
Investigations revealed that Bagby was a tenant facing eviction and had a history of dangerous behaviors, including previous charges of assault and communicating threats. On the day of the incident, Bagby allegedly broke into Matthews' home, shooting him multiple times, and subsequently shot Yarborough, who was attempting to assist Matthews. The residential fire, which resulted in the destruction of Bagby's home, is believed to be connected to the shooting incident, though the exact sequence of events remains under investigation.
Richard Yarborough was a retired Duke Energy employee with 47 years of service, known for his handyman skills and passion for helping others. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, survived by his wife, Pam Nickens Yarborough, with whom he would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on March 22, 2024. He is also survived by his son, Aaorn Yarborough, and granddaughter, Skyler Yarborough. A memorial service was planned for a later date to honor his memory.
This tragic incident has deeply affected the Fayetteville community, highlighting concerns regarding tenant-landlord disputes and the importance of addressing behavioral warning signs to prevent such violent outcomes. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shootings and the fire, urging anyone with additional information to contact the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office.
