North Carolina

2 dead after gunfire erupts during ‘large party’ in a North Carolina home, police say

Two men died after gunfire erupted during a “large party” in a North Carolina home early Saturday, police said.

Lexington residents Robert Grant, 31, and Britany Bethea, 41, were shot just before 2:30 a.m. after an altercation flared in the home in the 300 block of Tussey Street, according to a Lexington Police Department news release.

Grant was pronounced dead in the home, police said. Bethea died at Lexington Medical Center, where someone drove him before officers said they arrived at the home.

The house where the shooting took place is in an apparent secluded location, as trees drape the single-story white home at a curve in the road, according to Google Maps.

Two men died after gunfire erupted during a “large party” in a North Carolina home early Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, police said.
Two men died after gunfire erupted during a “large party” in a North Carolina home early Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, police said. GOOGLE STREET VIEW

“Beloved classmate”

Police didn’t say if they have anyone in custody or are searching for anyone. Police also haven’t said if they know what prompted the altercation or who was involved.

“This appears to be an isolated incident and there is no further information on potential suspects,” according to the police statement.

Lexington resident Dominique Gilley started a GoFundMe for Bethea’s family, including his son, Yahni, and his mother, Danita Bethea.

“Ice was cherished throughout the community, and he was a beloved classmate to all in the Lexington Senior High School class of 2000,” Gilley wrote. “His witty remarks, sparkling smile and big heart helped many of us through tough times throughout our childhoods and into adulthood.”

Police urged anyone who attended the party or has information about the shooting to call the Lexington Police Department 336-243-3302 or Lexington Area Crime Stoppers anonymous tips line at 336-243-2400.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

This story was originally published September 16, 2023 at 10:54 AM.

Joe Marusak
The Charlotte Observer
Joe Marusak has been a reporter for The Charlotte Observer since 1989 covering the people, municipalities and major news events of the region, and was a news bureau editor for the paper. He currently reports on breaking news. Support my work with a digital subscription
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