On September 21, 2024, at about 11:51 p.m., Rocky Mount officers responded to a ShotSpotter activation at South Grace Street and Clyde Street and found 28-year-old Daquan Williams unresponsive with a gunshot wound. Life-saving measures were attempted, but Williams was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation identified 29-year-old J’von Coley as a suspect in the killing. An arrest warrant charging Coley with murder was issued; he was taken into custody and is being held in the Nash County Jail without bond. At the time of his arrest, Coley was out on bond for several pending charges related to an August 5 incident, including attempted murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

The death has prompted community discussion about gun violence and repeat offenders, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. If there is any information about Daquan Williams, the location of the shooting, or witnesses, please share it with investigators.