On January 24, 2023, a tragic shooting occurred in Red Springs, North Carolina, resulting in the death of 45-year-old James Elijah Beauregard. The incident took place on Samuel Williams Drive, where authorities discovered Beauregard along with two other deceased individuals: 51-year-old Donald Williams and 34-year-old Sierra Nicole Wherry. A fourth victim, 71-year-old Equilla Williams-Biggs, sustained multiple gunshot wounds but survived the attack.
The suspect, 46-year-old Corey Grant Leak, was apprehended shortly after the incident. Leak, a relative of the victims, had been residing with Williams-Biggs, his aunt, following his release on parole in October 2020 after serving 27 years for a 1993 murder conviction. Investigators believe that an argument over money escalated, leading to the fatal shootings. Leak was charged with three counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, and additional firearm and drug-related offenses.
The community of Red Springs was deeply affected by this tragedy. Vigils were held to honor the victims, and local leaders emphasized the need for unity and support during such challenging times. Sheriff Burnis Wilkins expressed frustration over Leak's release, suggesting that the murders could have been prevented had he remained incarcerated. The case highlighted concerns about parole decisions and the reintegration of individuals with violent criminal histories into society.
