Tommy Lee Watkins Jr., 22, was shot and killed on June 3, 2025, in Wadesboro, North Carolina. He died behind the wheel of his car outside the North Wadesboro Grocery on 109 North. Security footage later showed two men approach, briefly speak with him, get into his vehicle, and moments later flee after gunfire.

Known as TJ, Watkins Jr. was from Troy with roots in nearby Mt. Gilead and worked for the Town of Troy’s Public Works Department. His death prompted a rapid multi-agency response and a wave of public grief across Anson and Montgomery counties. Within days investigators announced arrests: 25-year-old Justin Wright was taken into custody and charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon and murder, and a 16-year-old juvenile was also arrested while officials considered whether to charge them in juvenile or adult court.

Funeral arrangements were handled by Harris Funeral Home & Cremations in Mt. Gilead, with services set at Oliver Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Does anyone have information about Tommy’s movements that day or the area around North Wadesboro Grocery on June 3?