Paulette Thorpe, 74, of Durham, North Carolina, was killed by celebratory gunfire on July 4, 2020. The shooting happened around 11 p.m. while she was visiting with neighbors at a house on Burlington Avenue; she was struck by a stray bullet, taken to the hospital, and died shortly after arrival.

No suspects have been identified and no arrests have been made. The Durham Police have investigated the incident, offered rewards for information leading to arrests, and urged the community to prevent reckless celebratory gunfire. Neighbors called her Miss Pauline and described her as a quiet, well-dressed, friendly woman. Her family and friends have held memorials and remain focused on finding answers.

If anyone witnessed the shooting or has information that could help the investigation, please come forward to the Durham Police.