Wilbert Lee Stringfield Obituary, Death: Grandfather killed in North Carolina home shooting; multiple suspects suspected, sheriff says.
Wilbert Lee Stringfield Obituary, Death – Authorities in Wayne County, North Carolina, are investigating the fatal shooting of 83-year-old Wilbert Lee Stringfield, who was killed late Monday night when multiple gunshots were fired into his home. Investigators believe more than one shooter may have been involved in the attack.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of gunfire at a residence on Pecan Road in Dudley at approximately 11:47 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found Stringfield suffering from a gunshot wound inside the home. Despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Several people were inside the house when the shooting occurred, and they directed deputies to the victim. The sheriff’s office confirmed that “numerous rounds” were fired into the residence, hitting windows, walls, and the front door. The pattern of gunfire and the volume of shots fired suggest that multiple individuals may have been responsible for the attack.
A Chaotic Night: Witnesses Recall the Shooting
The sound of rapid gunfire startled neighbors late Monday night. Austin Sprunger, a resident nearby, described hearing an intense barrage of shots. “I couldn’t count,” he said. “It was bang, bang, bang. [I] hoped they were alright.”
Surveillance footage from a business across the street, obtained by CBS 17, reportedly captured the incident. The business owner described seeing white flashes on the video, believed to be the gunfire erupting outside Stringfield’s home.
Remembering Wilbert Lee Stringfield
Stringfield, a military veteran, had lived in his home for over 20 years. Family members returned to the house Tuesday afternoon, stepping past yellow crime scene tape as they processed the devastating loss. Relatives who had been inside the home at the time of the shooting recalled the terrifying moments when bullets tore through the residence, ultimately killing their beloved grandfather.
“I was over there,” one family member said. “Left about 11:30 p.m.” He also confirmed that his niece, who was inside the home during the attack, was unharmed.
As the family grieves, they are also reflecting on Stringfield’s long and fulfilling life. “Mr. Wilbert was a good man,” a relative shared. “He was in the military. He loved working construction, building things with his hands. And he had a train track for the kids in the neighborhood and the grandkids. He built it with his own hands.”
The family member added that when he last saw Stringfield, the elderly man had been in good spirits and was resting peacefully before the shooting occurred.
Investigation Ongoing, Authorities Seek Information
At this time, law enforcement has not identified any suspects, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Authorities are asking for the public’s help in gathering information that could lead to those responsible.
Anyone with details about the attack is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255 or send an anonymous tip via text to 919-222-4230. Tips can also be submitted through the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office mobile app.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a respected veteran and family man. The tragedy has left loved ones searching for answers while law enforcement works to bring justice to Stringfield and his grieving family.
