On July 11, 2023, 64-year-old Jack "Jackie" Shafer Sr. was found deceased in his Cedar Point residence, the victim of an apparent murder-suicide. The Carteret County Sheriff's Office responded to a welfare check at Shafer's home on Dogwood Drive, where they discovered both Shafer and his 84-year-old roommate, Michael Lyle Bowling, dead from gunshot wounds. Investigators believe that Bowling shot Shafer before turning the gun on himself.
Shafer was a well-known figure in his community, celebrated for his love of the outdoors and music. Born on April 11, 1959, in the Bogue Community, he was an avid hunter, angler, and skilled musician, proficient with the fiddle and steel guitar. His dedication extended to public service; he volunteered as a firefighter with the Stella and Western Carteret EMS and served as the assistant chief of the Western Carteret Fire & EMS Department. Shafer was also a talented carpenter, woodworker, and artist, deeply committed to his family.
The relationship between Shafer and Bowling had reportedly been strained in the weeks leading up to the incident. Authorities have indicated that the two men had not been getting along, which may have contributed to the tragic outcome. The investigation by the Carteret County Sheriff's Office concluded that the case was a murder-suicide, with Bowling identified as the shooter.
Shafer's passing was a significant loss to the Cedar Point community, where he was remembered for his selfless service and the values he instilled in his children. A memorial service was held on July 22, 2023, at Munden Funeral Home to honor his life and contributions.
