On March 12, 2023, at approximately 4:26 p.m., the Lowell Police Department, along with the Gaston County Police Department and Gaston County Sheriff's Office, responded to a reported shooting at 307 South Church Street in Lowell, North Carolina. Upon arrival, officers discovered 21-year-old Michael Antoine Drayton Jr. deceased from an apparent gunshot wound. Several individuals present at the residence were detained for questioning.
Following the initial investigation, authorities identified 29-year-old Samuel Colt Usery, a resident of the same address, as the suspect in the shooting. Usery was subsequently arrested and charged with second-degree murder. He was taken into custody and held in the Gaston County Jail, awaiting his first court appearance.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Drayton's death was conducted collaboratively by the Lowell Police Department, Gaston County Police Department, and the Gaston County District Attorney's Office. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information to contact Lowell Sergeant R. Hoffman at 704-824-8540, Gaston County Police Detective H. Lloyd at 704-866-3320, or Crimestoppers at 704-861-8000.
Drayton's passing was deeply mourned by his family and friends. Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, he was remembered for his love of making music, playing video games, and his happy, fun-loving nature. He is survived by his parents, two daughters, two brothers, grandparents, and several extended family members. A visitation and funeral service were held on March 17, 2023, at Grier Funeral Service in Charlotte to honor his memory.
