On January 15, 2023, at approximately 11:27 p.m., the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office received a distress call from 66-year-old David Wayne Owens, reporting a domestic dispute with his wife, 64-year-old Clarice Elaine Owens, at their residence on Casar Road in Casar, North Carolina.
Seeking immediate assistance, David contacted a neighboring family member, Jordan Stephens, who arrived at the scene before law enforcement. As David attempted to leave the home, Clarice produced a firearm and fatally shot him. She then aimed the weapon at Stephens, who, fearing for his life, discharged his own firearm, resulting in Clarice's death.
Emergency medical services and deputies arrived promptly; however, both David and Clarice were pronounced deceased at the scene. The incident has been classified as a murder-suicide precipitated by domestic violence. Authorities have not filed charges against Stephens, deeming his actions as self-defense.
David Owens was remembered as a dedicated worker who enjoyed working on cars, cooking, and spending time doing yard work in his garden. He cherished his family and grandchildren. Clarice enjoyed playing video games, feeding the birds, and crocheting. She also collected bells and spoons from every state she and David visited while truck driving. She loved her grandchildren and spending time with her family.
This tragic event underscores the critical importance of addressing domestic violence and ensuring that individuals in distress have access to necessary support and intervention services.
