AUTRYVILLE, NC – A quiet Sunday morning was shattered in Autryville, North Carolina, when a homeless camp became the scene of a horrific quadruple shooting. Four individuals lost their lives in what authorities believe to be a murder-suicide.
The incident unfolded around 9:20 a.m., prompting a swift response from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office. A local woman, who had been out walking her dogs, reported an argument from the encampment followed by a rapid succession of gunshots.
The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, said she initially dismissed the argument as a common occurrence. However, the sound of 10 to 15 gunshots in quick succession alarmed her, leading her to alert the authorities.
Deputies arrived to find a chilling scene: four lifeless bodies, two men and two women, near two tents at the homeless camp situated near Tanner Lane. All victims had sustained gunshot wounds, according to preliminary findings.
Investigators, based on initial evidence, are treating the incident as a possible murder-suicide. However, the investigation is still ongoing, with crime scene investigators diligently working to ensure no stone is left unturned.
The sheriff’s office has yet to release the identities of the victims, stating that confirmation of identities and notification of next of kin are still underway. The department has also reassured the public that there is no perceived ongoing threat related to this incident.