Domestic Disturbance Leaves One Dead, One Injured In Waxhaw

WAXHAW, N.C. – One person is dead and another is in the hospital following a domestic disturbance in Waxhaw.

Authorities arrested 62-year-old Jeffery Lemmonds as a result of the shooting that resulted from a family dispute.

Police responded to a residence on Forest Green Drive in Mineral Springs on Tuesday evening in regards to a shooting.

When officers arrived, they spotted 29-year-old Justin Starnes suffering from a gunshot wound. Medical personnel administered aid, but Starnes was pronounced dead at the scene.

Also at the scene was Lemmonds’ wife, who allegedly suffered a severe head injury. She was taken to a local hospital to receive treatment but is expected to make a full recovery.

“This incident escalated to an unnecessary level when the suspect introduced a gun and fired multiple shots in a reckless manner in an effort to kill members of his own family,” Sheriff Eddie Cathey said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their other family members as they begin to mourn this tragic loss and recover from the injuries sustained during this incident. I ask that anyone with information that will help our investigators in this case contact my office without delay.”

Investigators quickly identified Lemmonds as the suspect, who left the scene before police arrived and went to another family member’s home in Monroe.

Lemmonds was arrested there and was later charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder.

He is being held at the Union County Detention Center without bond.

Officials said this is an isolated incident and there are no known threats to the community.