HENDERSON, NC — June 15, 2025 — Community Grieves as Police Hunt Suspect in Heartbreaking Double Homicide
HENDERSON, NC — June 15, 2025 — Community Grieves as Police Hunt Suspect in Heartbreaking Double Homicide
HENDERSON, NC — The city of Henderson, North Carolina, is in a state of collective grief and unease following a tragic double homicide that has shocked the community to its core. On the evening of Sunday, June 15, two lives were brutally taken in an act of violence that has prompted an intensive and ongoing manhunt.
According to the Henderson Police Department (HPD), 41-year-old Michael Sharron Wright has been identified as the primary suspect in the killings of 63-year-old Teresa Davis and her son, 26-year-old Joseph Jeffreys Jr. The violent incident took place at a residence in a quiet neighborhood on the city’s south side, sending ripples of fear and heartbreak throughout the community.
The Tragic Discovery
Emergency services were dispatched to the scene just after 6:00 p.m. Sunday after a concerned neighbor called 911 to report what they believed to be gunfire and a possible disturbance. Upon arrival, officers found the bodies of Teresa Davis and her son inside the home. Both had suffered fatal injuries believed to be inflicted by gunfire. Paramedics pronounced them dead at the scene.
The crime scene was immediately secured, and the Henderson Police Department launched a homicide investigation, later releasing a statement confirming they were actively searching for Wright, who is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities have urged the public not to approach him but to call 911 or the HPD tip line immediately if he is spotted.
Who Were the Victims?
Family and friends describe Teresa Davis as a warm, nurturing woman with a deep love for her family and her faith. She was a longtime resident of Henderson, known for her gentle spirit and devotion to her children. Her son, Joseph Jeffreys Jr., remembered by friends as “Joey,” was a kind-hearted and hardworking young man with a passion for music and a fierce loyalty to his loved ones.
“They didn’t deserve this,” said one family friend at a candlelight vigil held late Sunday night. “Teresa was a mother to so many of us, and Joey had his whole life ahead of him. This is beyond heartbreaking.”
The Suspect: Michael Sharron Wright
Authorities have not released details regarding Wright’s motive or his connection to the victims, though early reports suggest he may have had a prior relationship with the family. Wright has a criminal history that includes prior arrests for assault and weapons violations, raising concern among law enforcement officials about the potential risk he poses to the public.
Investigators have issued a warrant for his arrest on two counts of first-degree murder, and surrounding jurisdictions have been alerted as the manhunt widens. HPD is working in conjunction with the Vance County Sheriff’s Office, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and U.S. Marshals to locate and apprehend Wright.
Community Response
In the aftermath of the killings, community members have gathered to mourn, pray, and call for justice. Vigils and prayer circles have formed across the city, particularly at churches where the victims were known and loved.
“This is a tragedy that touches every corner of our city,” said Mayor Eddie Ellington. “We stand with the Davis-Jeffreys family during this unimaginable time, and we will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served.”
Local organizations have also stepped forward to offer counseling services and support for those struggling to process the trauma. Henderson police have increased patrols in residential neighborhoods to provide reassurance and a heightened presence as the investigation unfolds.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Monday morning, June 16, HPD confirmed that Michael Sharron Wright remains at large. Investigators are pursuing multiple leads and have asked anyone with information about Wright’s whereabouts to contact the Henderson Police Department at (252) 438-4141 or Vance County Crime Stoppers at (252) 492-1925. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the department’s website.
Wright is described as a Black male, approximately 6’2” tall, weighing around 240 pounds. He was last seen wearing a dark t-shirt and jeans, and may be operating a gray 2008 Nissan Altima with North Carolina plates.
A City in Mourning
For the people of Henderson, this senseless act of violence has left a painful scar, especially for those who knew Teresa and Joseph personally. As the city waits for answers — and for an arrest — their memories are being honored with flowers, candles, and heartfelt tributes.
“Justice will come,” said Reverend Darrell Wilkins at a Sunday night vigil. “But until then, we hold each other close. We pray. And we remember Teresa and Joey with love, not the violence that took them from us.”
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
