Two Killed in Shooting at Roanoke Rapids Gas Station
ROANOKE RAPIDS, N.C. — A deadly shooting at a Roanoke Rapids gas station left two men dead Wednesday afternoon, prompting a heavy police response and temporary school lockdowns in the area.
The shooting happened around 1 p.m. at the New Dixie Mart on Julian R. Alsbrook Highway, formerly known as Presto.
Victims Identified
When officers arrived at the scene, they found 31-year-old Dasean L. Banks of Roanoke Rapids dead outside the store.
A second victim, Anthony Shearin, also from Roanoke Rapids, was discovered inside the store suffering from gunshot wounds. He was first rushed to ECU North Hospital before being transferred to Greenville for further treatment. Authorities later confirmed he died from his injuries.
Police Response and Investigation
Roanoke Rapids Police Chief Lawrence Wiggins confirmed that while no one has been charged with the actual shootings, Ju-Quan Letrae Rawles of Roanoke Rapids was arrested and charged with obstruction of justice for his actions following the incident.
The Halifax County Sheriff’s Office assisted local police in securing the scene and supporting the ongoing investigation. Officers spent hours collecting evidence as detectives began piecing together the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
As a precaution, Roanoke Rapids Schools were placed on a soft lockdown during the incident. The measure was lifted shortly after 2:20 p.m., once police determined there was no continued threat to the public.
Local residents expressed concern over the violence erupting in a busy area of town, with the gas station located along one of the city’s main thoroughfares.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have not released a possible motive, and the case remains under active investigation. Police have urged anyone with information to come forward.
Chief Wiggins stressed that more details will be shared as the investigation progresses, noting the community’s role in helping solve violent crimes.
Residents of Halifax County are encouraged to share their thoughts on how gun violence is affecting local communities. Join the discussion now at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
