Wilson, N.C. – A devastating tragedy unfolded Monday afternoon in Wilson, North Carolina, when a mother and her son were fatally shot during an eviction dispute that escalated into deadly gunfire. Authorities say the alleged shooter, 39-year-old Donta Chestnut, is now in custody and facing multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder.
The victims have been identified as 44-year-old Natasha Latrice Sutton and her 21-year-old son, Avantae Pender. Both lost their lives after the violent confrontation erupted shortly after 2 p.m. on Washington Street.
Details of the Shooting
According to investigators, Chestnut had been attempting to force Sutton and her son out of their home when the argument escalated. The situation turned violent, and Chestnut allegedly opened fire, striking Sutton, Pender, and a third woman, 37-year-old Tiffany Fogg.
Fogg, who sustained gunshot wounds, was rushed to Wilson Medical Center, where she is reported to be in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
Despite emergency response efforts, Sutton and Pender were pronounced dead at the scene, leaving family, neighbors, and the Wilson community shaken and heartbroken.
Suspect in Custody
Chestnut was quickly apprehended by authorities and taken into custody without further incident. In addition to the two counts of first-degree murder, he faces a charge of attempted first-degree murder for the shooting of Tiffany Fogg.
Officials have not yet released details about how long the eviction dispute had been ongoing or whether Chestnut had any formal authority in the matter.
Community in Shock
The violent deaths of Sutton and Pender have sent shockwaves through Wilson, where residents describe the mother and son as caring, family-oriented individuals who did not deserve such a fate. Community leaders and neighbors have called the incident both “tragic” and “senseless,” underscoring the devastating toll of violence tied to housing and eviction struggles.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of two lives in our community,” one neighbor shared. “It’s something you never expect to happen right outside your door.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Wilson Police Department and local prosecutors are continuing their investigation into the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Authorities have urged anyone with further information to come forward as they work to piece together the events that ended in tragedy.
As the legal process moves forward, Chestnut remains behind bars awaiting his first court appearance.
Remembering the Victims
Family and friends are now left to grieve the sudden loss of Natasha Latrice Sutton and Avantae Pender, whose lives were cut short in a dispute that spiraled into violence. Vigils and community gatherings are expected to be organized in the coming days as Wilson rallies to support the surviving family members and honor the memories of those lost.
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