FAIRMONT, N.C. — A family tragedy unfolded Monday morning when Lacey Cole Jr., 69, was arrested and charged in the fatal shooting of his brother, 71-year-old William Pressley. The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office announced Cole’s arrest on Tuesday, detailing charges that include second-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and discharging a firearm within an enclosure to incite fear.
Deputies responded to reports of a shooting around 10:50 a.m. in the 1400 block of Williamson Road. Upon arrival, they discovered Pressley deceased at the scene, the apparent victim of a gunshot wound. Despite the swift response, Pressley’s life could not be saved. Cole was taken into custody shortly after, and authorities have confirmed he is being held at the Robeson County Detention Center without bond.
Details about the events leading up to the shooting remain unclear, and investigators have not released further information. It is not yet known what triggered the fatal altercation between the two brothers, and the Sheriff’s Office has not disclosed whether there were previous disputes or incidents involving the family.
The shooting has left the Fairmont community reeling, as the brothers were both known in the area. The unexpected violence has shocked neighbors and friends, many of whom are struggling to comprehend how a family conflict could escalate to such a tragic outcome. Local residents expressed sorrow and disbelief, with some calling for more support for families dealing with conflict and mental health challenges.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-671-3170. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses as they work to understand the full scope of the tragedy. The Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of community cooperation in uncovering what led to this fatal encounter.
As the investigation continues, the case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence, particularly within families. The loss of William Pressley has left a void in the lives of those who knew him, while the arrest of Lacey Cole Jr. underscores the profound toll that such events take on families and communities alike.