James Ray Watkins, 37, was shot and killed on October 15, 2021, outside the AK Mart on Washington Street in Eden, North Carolina. Officers responding to a weapons call found Watkins suffering from a gunshot wound in the convenience store parking lot; lifesaving measures were attempted but he was pronounced dead at the scene around 9 a.m. Watkins was identified as a resident of Stoneville.

Police took a person of interest into custody, though that individual’s identity has not been released. Questions have been raised about security at the gas station and whether property owners provided adequate protection for patrons; the Murray Law Firm has suggested the family might pursue a security negligence claim if shortcomings are found. The investigation remains active and police are asking anyone with information to come forward.

If anyone has information about Watkins, the shooting, or security at that location, please share what is known.