Crime
Thomas Jeffries Fatally Shot in Graham Family Dispute, Suspect James Daye in Custody
GRAHAM, N.C. — A fatal shooting in Graham on Wednesday night has left one man dead and another in custody, according to the Graham Police Department.
Officers were dispatched to 400 Poplar Street following reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers located 34-year-old Thomas Jeffries Jr., who was suffering from gunshot wounds.
Despite emergency efforts, Jeffries later succumbed to his injuries.
Investigators quickly identified 59-year-old James Thomas Daye as the suspect.
Daye was taken into custody at the scene without further incident and has since been charged with murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
Police described the shooting as the result of a family dispute and emphasized that evidence indicates this was an isolated incident, noting there is no ongoing threat to the wider community.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and ask anyone with additional information to contact the Graham Police Department at (336) 570-6711.
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — A 35-year-old man has died after being shot inside a residence in Birmingham early Thursday morning, prompting a homicide investigation by local authorities.
The victim was identified as Ralen Jerean McCurdy, according to the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office. McCurdy was found unresponsive inside a home in the 4300 block of 12th Court North after police responded to reports of gunfire and an injured person shortly after 1:40 a.m.
Despite the response from emergency personnel, McCurdy did not survive his injuries. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service personnel pronounced him dead at approximately 2:04 a.m.
According to authorities, officers assigned to Birmingham Police Department’s South Precinct were dispatched to the area shortly after 1:40 a.m. Thursday following a ShotSpotter alert and a report of an injured individual.
When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered McCurdy unresponsive inside the home. Emergency responders subsequently confirmed his death at the scene.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting have not yet been publicly established.
Birmingham police detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding McCurdy’s death. Authorities have not announced any arrests, and no suspect information or possible motive was included in the details released.
Investigators will continue working to determine what happened inside the residence and identify anyone who may have been involved. Additional information may be released as the investigation progresses.
McCurdy’s death marks Birmingham’s fourth homicide since Saturday, according to the information provided. The latest fatal shooting adds to a difficult stretch for the city and leaves another family grieving the loss of a loved one.
At 35 years old, McCurdy’s life ended in a violent incident that remains under investigation. His death is a painful loss for his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.
As detectives continue their work, loved ones are left to remember McCurdy while waiting for answers about the circumstances that led to his death.
May Ralen Jerean McCurdy rest in peace. May his family and friends find strength, comfort, and support during this heartbreaking time.