On September 16, 2023, at approximately 2:30 a.m., the Lexington Police Department responded to reports of a shooting at a residence on Tussey Street in Lexington, North Carolina. Upon arrival, officers discovered 31-year-old Robert Grant deceased inside the home from gunshot wounds. Shortly thereafter, 41-year-old Britany Valdez Garsear Bethea arrived at a local hospital via private vehicle, also suffering from gunshot injuries; he later succumbed to his wounds.
Investigations revealed that a large party was underway at the Tussey Street residence when an altercation erupted, leading to the fatal shootings of Grant and Bethea. Initially, no suspect information was available, and authorities urged anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.
On November 3, 2023, progress was made when the Lexington Police Department, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Carolinas Regional Task Force, arrested 37-year-old Darius Bethea in connection with the case. He was charged with murder, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana. Additionally, 20-year-old AAlysa Hairston was arrested and charged with harboring a fugitive, as she had provided accommodation for Bethea during the investigation.
The arrests marked a significant development in the case, bringing some measure of closure to the families of the victims. The investigation remains active, with authorities continuing to seek information to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the tragic events of September 16. Community members with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Lexington Police Department or Crime Stoppers to assist in the ongoing investigation.
