Judah Ben Taylor, 50, was fatally shot inside a Durham home on Lions Court shortly after 1:30 a.m. on January 8, 2025. Durham police found Taylor deceased at the scene from a gunshot wound after responding to a 911 call; the call captured sounds of gunfire and the caller saying Taylor had entered the bedroom before being shot.

Investigators concluded the shooting occurred during a confrontation involving Taylor, his estranged wife, and her current partner. Taylor had cut power to the residence and tried to break in. Court records show a long history of domestic violence–related legal problems: prior arrests and multiple charges including assault, stalking, and violations of protective orders, and a permanent no-contact order. The day before his death Taylor was indicted on felony stalking and violating a domestic protective order and an arrest warrant was issued.

The Durham County District Attorney’s Office reviewed the case and determined the shooting was an act of self-defense; no charges were filed against the shooter and the investigation was closed. Taylor’s obituary notes his passion for the restaurant industry, his artistic talents, and that he was the father of nine children.

Does anyone have information about the events on Lions Court that night or knew Taylor and his family?