Ardrie White

On March 3, 2023, at approximately 1:34 a.m., deputies from the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a disturbance at a residence on Adagio Trail in Richlands, North Carolina. Upon arrival, authorities encountered 31-year-old Christopher Paul Kornegay Jr. standing outside the residence armed with a firearm. Kornegay surrendered without resistance and was taken into custody. Inside the home, deputies discovered 14-year-old Ardrie Kent Zyrus Callejo White and his mother, 40-year-old Audrey White, both deceased from gunshot wounds. ((https://wcti12.com/news/local/man-arrested-in-richlands-after-two-bodies-found-in-home))

Investigators determined that Kornegay, the fiancé of Audrey White, was responsible for the killings. He was charged with two counts of murder and transported to the Onslow County Detention Center, where he was held without bond. Records indicated a history of domestic disturbances at the residence involving Kornegay, highlighting a pattern of escalating violence. ((https://www.wnct.com/local-news/man-arrested-in-richlands-after-woman-and-son-killed-in-double-homicide/))

Ardrie White was a vibrant young boy with a passion for dinosaurs and a dream of pursuing a career in science. He was known for his inquisitive mind, kind demeanor, and ability to bring joy to those around him. His father, Dexter White, expressed profound heartbreak, remembering Ardrie as a bright and promising individual with a deep bond to his family. ((https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/27534031/ardrie-k-z-white))

This tragic incident has prompted discussions within the Richlands community about the importance of addressing domestic violence and the need for stronger interventions to prevent such devastating outcomes. Local organizations and law enforcement officials have emphasized the availability of resources for individuals experiencing abuse, urging those at risk to seek help. ((https://gunmemorial.org/2023/03/03/ardrie-white))

In the days following the tragedy, community members gathered for vigils to honor the lives of Ardrie and Audrey White. These events underscored the collective grief and commitment to supporting affected families, as well as the resolve to prevent similar incidents in the future. ((https://www.wnct.com/local-news/family-friends-mourn-loss-of-mother-and-son-in-richlands-shooting/))

The Daily News: Onslow County man charged with murder after woman, teenager found shot Friday morning

https://www.witn.com: DEPUTIES: Man kills fiancee and her teenage son in Onslow County

Father wants death penalty for man accused of killing son & ex-wife

AUTOPSY: Mom may have been attempting escape when she & son ...

Ardrie White, age 14 - National Gun Violence Memorial

Homicides in 2023 - NCCADV