On November 4, 2023, at approximately 12:52 a.m., Winston-Salem Police Department officers responded to a reported shooting at 3533 North Glenn Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered 41-year-old Jerry Lee Hairston Jr., known affectionately as "Peanut," deceased from multiple gunshot wounds. This incident marked the city's 42nd homicide of the year.
Hairston was a lifelong resident of Winston-Salem, born on June 6, 1982, to Susan Pierce and the late Jerry Lee Hairston Sr.
He attended Winston-Salem Forsyth County Public Schools and worked in the service and restaurant industries, including at K&W Cafeteria. He was deeply passionate about his family, his Islamic faith, and his community, always willing to help others in need. He is survived by his mother, son, sisters, stepchildren, and other relatives and friends.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Winston-Salem Police Department's Criminal Investigations Division launched an investigation into Hairston's death. On November 28, 2023, a suspect was arrested in connection with the homicide. The individual was charged with accessory after the fact to murder, indicating involvement in assisting the primary perpetrator following the crime. The investigation remains active as authorities continue to gather information and pursue leads to bring all responsible parties to justice.
The community has been urged to provide any information that could aid in the investigation. Local law enforcement continues to emphasize the importance of public cooperation in solving such cases and preventing further acts of violence in the area.
