A 27-year-old Salisbury man is dead after a fight that police say turned violent late Thursday, and a 46-year-old man is now facing a voluntary manslaughter charge. The victim, identified by officials as Altereck Rashad Shields Jr., was found with wounds to his chest and neck and could not be saved.
What police say
According to a news release from the Salisbury Police Department, officers responded at approximately 8:56 p.m. on April 30 to a call at 726 Wiley Avenue. They found Shields (DOB: 08/20/1998) in the roadway with apparent wounds to his chest and neck. Emergency personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but Shields was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives say others at the residence witnessed the altercation.
How the altercation unfolded
Investigators say Shields and Jerome Lee Staples (DOB: 03/14/1980) were involved in a verbal dispute at a family member's residence that escalated into a physical altercation involving a knife. As reported by WCCB Charlotte, both men sustained injuries. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Staples with voluntary manslaughter, and he was taken into custody without incident.
Police statement
Chief Smith praised the department’s response and said the agency will support the victim’s family as the case moves through the justice process. “I’m proud of the work done by our patrol officers, Criminal Investigations Division, the State Bureau of Investigation, and our Victim Advocate managing this complex case,” the news release states. Police also note there is no active threat to the community.
Investigation and tips
The Salisbury Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, with assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, led the probe and reviewed interviews and video evidence. According to WBTV, officials are asking witnesses or anyone with information to contact Lt. Casper or Sgt. Hill at 704-638-5333.
What the charge means
Detectives charged Jerome Lee Staples with voluntary manslaughter. Under North Carolina law, voluntary manslaughter is punishable as a Class D felony, per the state code, and court guidance describes the offense as an unlawful killing without malice that often occurs in the "heat of passion" or where excessive force is used in self-defense. See the North Carolina General Statutes and state court guidance on jury instructions for voluntary manslaughter from the NC courts.
The investigation remains active, and prosecutors will review the case as detectives continue gathering evidence. Anyone with tips is asked to contact the Salisbury Police Department.
