On July 20, 2023, at approximately 3:27 p.m., Durham police responded to a ShotSpotter alert and reports of gunfire in the 1000 block of Raynor Street, near the Wellons Village shopping center. Upon arrival, officers found 43-year-old Benjamin Francois Morris of Raleigh suffering from gunshot wounds near a bus stop. Emergency Medical Services transported Morris to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Witnesses reported that the shots were fired from a passing vehicle in what appeared to be a drive-by shooting. However, authorities have not released a description of the suspect vehicle. Durham Police Chief Patrice Andrews was present at the scene as the investigation unfolded.
As of now, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been publicly identified. The Durham Police Department continues to investigate the case and has urged anyone with information to contact Investigator D. Bussell at 919-560-4440 ext. 29254 or CrimeStoppers at 919-683-1200. CrimeStoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to arrests in felony cases, and callers can remain anonymous.
