On May 22, 2023, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Fayetteville Police Department officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 4900 block of Schmidt Street. Upon arrival, they discovered 37-year-old Joseph Walton lying in the roadway, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, Walton was pronounced dead at the scene.
The following day, May 23, 2023, authorities arrested 18-year-old Jeavon Jquon McCoy, charging him with first-degree murder in connection with Walton's death. McCoy was taken into custody without incident and held at the Cumberland County Detention Center under no bond.
Subsequent investigations led to the identification of a second suspect. On July 11, 2023, 20-year-old Laurence Williams was apprehended by the Violent Criminal Apprehension Team. Williams faced charges of first-degree murder and robbery with a deadly weapon related to the May 22 shooting. He was also detained at the Cumberland County Detention Center without bond.
The arrests of McCoy and Williams were the culmination of a thorough investigation by the Fayetteville Police Department, which included the release of surveillance images and appeals to the public for information. The swift apprehension of the suspects provided some measure of relief to the community, though the motive behind the shooting remains under investigation.
Joseph Walton's untimely death has left a void in the lives of his family and friends. Community members have expressed their condolences and support, mourning the loss of a life cut short by senseless violence. As the legal proceedings against McCoy and Williams progress, the community remains hopeful for justice and continues to honor Walton's memory.
