On June 6, 2023, at approximately 9:27 a.m., Durham Police Department officers responded to a reported shooting at a residence on North Driver Street in Durham, North Carolina. Upon arrival, they discovered 78-year-old Joseph Bernard Winstead suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency Medical Services pronounced him deceased at the scene.
The initial report was made by 35-year-old Brett Cote, who was present at the residence.
Cote informed first responders that an altercation had occurred, resulting in Winstead's injury. Following an on-site investigation, authorities arrested Cote, charging him with first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He was subsequently detained at the Durham County Jail.
Public records indicate that Cote had a prior criminal history, including felony convictions, which legally prohibited him from possessing firearms. The relationship between Winstead and Cote remains unclear, and authorities have not disclosed a potential motive for the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, with detectives seeking additional information to clarify the circumstances leading up to the incident.
Joseph Winstead, born on July 4, 1944, in Vance County, was a dedicated member of St. Joseph's Episcopal Church in Durham. A memorial service was held in his honor on June 23, 2023, officiated by The Rev. Dr. Lauren Winner. Winstead is remembered by his surviving brother, Adrian L. Winstead, and several nieces and nephews.
The tragic death of Winstead has prompted discussions within the Durham community about gun violence and the importance of enforcing firearm possession laws, particularly concerning individuals with prior felony convictions. Local authorities continue to urge anyone with pertinent information regarding the case to contact Investigator J. Flamion at (919) 560-4440, ext. 29123, or CrimeStoppers at (919) 683-1200.
