Chatel Melissa Aikens, 49, was found dead in her Franklinville, North Carolina residence on February 27, 2024, after reports of a gunshot. Deputies from the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office discovered Aikens inside the home and detained 54-year-old Roy Clay Williams at the scene; Williams was later charged with murder and held without bond, making a first court appearance on February 28, 2024.

Aikens lived in Asheboro and worked at the Dollar General in Ramseur. She is survived by three children—Justin, Savannah, and Madison—and three grandchildren. A memorial service was held March 12, 2024, at the Asheboro Church of God of Prophecy. The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate and asks anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations Division.

If anyone knew Melissa, her routines, or was in Franklinville on February 27, did anything unusual stand out?