On the night of October 22, 2024, deputies from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported shooting at a residence on the 4200 block of River Run Drive in Sanford, North Carolina. Officers found 76-year-old Joan Collins deceased from a gunshot wound at the scene.

Authorities detained 66-year-old Randall Lee Stark, described as Collins’ long-term live-in partner, and after an initial investigation charged him with first-degree murder. Stark was booked into the Lee County Jail without bond. The Sheriff’s Office says the investigation is ongoing; no other suspects have been identified and no motive or detailed circumstances have been released.

Local obituaries note Collins’ passing and the community is awaiting further information from law enforcement. If anyone knew Joan Collins, her partner, or observed activity on River Run Drive on October 22, please share what was seen or heard with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.