Michael Charles Hayes � Old Salisbury Road Shooting, July 17, 1988
Background
Michael Charles Hayes was born January 13, 1964, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He began using drugs around age 13 and became known for bullying and attention-seeking behavior, likely influenced by mental illness and substance abuse. He drifted between jobs until working at his parents� business, Edwards� Moped Shop on Old Salisbury Road, near the Forsyth�Davidson County line. After allegedly stealing funds from the shop, his parents threatened to sell the business and cease their support�an ultimatum that reportedly contributed to his psychological deterioration .
The Shooting Spree
On the night of July 17, 1988, sometime between approximately 11:00 p.m. and 11:45 p.m., Hayes stood on the centerline of the dimly lit roadway outside the moped shop and opened fire on passersby with a .22-caliber rifle . He shot nine people, four of whom succumbed to their injuries. Hayes later claimed he believed the victims were demons that needed to be killed .
Victims (Fatalities � Bullet-Point List)
- Crystal Cantrell (16 years old)
- Thomas Walter "Tom" Nicholson (24 years old)
- Melinda Hayes (21 years old) � no relation
- Ronnie (Ronald Lee) Hull (32 years old)
These four individuals died that night. Additionally, five others were wounded .
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