On the evening of September 18, 2023, at approximately 8:25 p.m., officers from the Spindale Police Department responded to a reported shooting at the Stagecoach Motel on East Main Street in Spindale, North Carolina. Upon arrival, they discovered 23-year-old Marianna Alicia Woods lying outside room 14, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services pronounced her dead at the scene.
Inside the motel room, officers found 23-year-old Darrin Marquis Ross of Shelby, North Carolina. After an initial investigation, Ross was arrested and charged with murder in connection with Woods's death. He was subsequently transported to the Rutherford County Detention Center. Authorities indicated that the investigation was ongoing and that additional charges might be forthcoming.
Ms. Woods, born on February 9, 2000, in Cleveland County, was a graduate of Crest High School. She was known for her love of singing, reading, and, most importantly, spending time with her family. She is survived by her parents, Deanna Gettys and Robert Woods Sr., four brothers, two sisters, and numerous other relatives who cherished her. A memorial gathering was held on September 22, 2023, at Cleveland Funeral Services & Crematory, followed by a balloon release at Shelby City Park.
The tragic incident has deeply affected the local community, prompting discussions about safety and the prevalence of gun violence. Ms. Woods's untimely death is a significant loss to her family and friends, who remember her as a sweet soul with a beautiful voice and a radiant smile.
As of now, there have been no public updates regarding the progression of the legal case against Ross or any additional charges filed. The Spindale Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting to provide justice for Ms. Woods and her family.
For a brief overview of the incident, you may watch the following video:
