Michael Hayes

Mass Murderer

Michael Charles Hayes – Old Salisbury Road Shooting, July 17, 1988

Background

Michael Charles Hayes was born January 13, 1964, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He began using drugs around age 13 and became known for bullying and attention-seeking behavior, likely influenced by mental illness and substance abuse. He drifted between jobs until working at his parents’ business, Edwards’ Moped Shop on Old Salisbury Road, near the Forsyth–Davidson County line. After allegedly stealing funds from the shop, his parents threatened to sell the business and cease their support—an ultimatum that reportedly contributed to his psychological deterioration .

The Shooting Spree

On the night of July 17, 1988, sometime between approximately 11:00 p.m. and 11:45 p.m., Hayes stood on the centerline of the dimly lit roadway outside the moped shop and opened fire on passersby with a .22-caliber rifle . He shot nine people, four of whom succumbed to their injuries. Hayes later claimed he believed the victims were demons that needed to be killed .

Victims (Fatalities – Bullet-Point List)

• Crystal Cantrell (16 years old)
• Thomas Walter "Tom" Nicholson (24 years old)
• Melinda Hayes (21 years old) – no relation
• Ronnie (Ronald Lee) Hull (32 years old)

These four individuals died that night. Additionally, five others were wounded . ...Read More

Confirmed Victims: (4)

Crystal Susan Cantrell 16 yr old Female

    ...View 3 additional victims    ...View 3 additional victims    ...View 3 additional victims

Old Salisbury Road shooting - Wikipedia

    ...View 10 additional sources