ASHEBORO, N.C. (ACME NEWS)— Two men were killed and a 2-year-old child was injured in a shooting Tuesday evening at the Coleridge Road Apartments, according to the Asheboro Police Department.
Officers responded to the complex at 6:05 p.m. following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, police found two men in a parking lot near a vehicle suffering from gunshot wounds.
Despite lifesaving efforts by officers and arriving emergency medical personnel, both men were pronounced dead at the scene.
The 2-year-old child also suffered gunshot wounds and was transported to a local medical facility. The child’s condition was not immediately available.
“We are early into this investigation and Asheboro Police personnel are still currently on the scene collecting evidence and trying to locate any witnesses,” Chief Mark Lineberry said in a statement. “Early indications are this shooting was not a random act and we are actively trying to identify all suspects.”
The identities of the victims have not yet been released. Authorities said more information is expected to be made public Wednesday as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Asheboro Police Department at 336-626-1300, ext. 316.
Update Jan 22, 2021 – 12 P.M.
Asheboro Police Chief Mark Lineberry has released the following update:
“Asheboro Police personnel have worked throughout the night collecting and processing evidence. We have conducted interviews and are following up on information received and that continues this morning.
We have received information this morning that the child who was shot is in stable condition. One of the deceased males is a juvenile, age 16, of Asheboro. The other deceased has been identified as 25 year old Eli Junior Gainey of Asheboro. I would like to reiterate that it is confirmed that this was not a random act and not domestic related. It is apparent from the investigation that the two deceased were the targets.
If you have any information regarding this incident please call Asheboro Police Department Det. Shore at 336-626-1300 ext. 309 or ext. 316 or you can leave your information with Randolph County Crime Stoppers at 336-672-7463″.
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