A man shot on MLK Drive in Bladenboro earlier this week has died, and the man accused of shooting him now faces a murder charge. Mario Gillespie died from injuries he suffered in the Oct. 19 shooting, and Joseph Allen Banner Jr. was charged Friday with murder in connection with his death.
Officers responded to the 800 block of MLK Drive just after 6 p.m. Monday, according to WECT. Gillespie was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center for treatment following the shooting, the station reported. Banner was originally arrested the night of the shooting and charged with attempted first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, per the same report.
Charge Upgraded After Victim's Death
With Gillespie's death confirmed Friday, Oct. 23, the attempted murder charge against Banner was upgraded to murder, as detailed by Columbus County News. A magistrate ordered Banner held without bond, the station's report noted. The Bladenboro Police Department said the case remains under active investigation, and no additional details about a motive or the relationship between Banner and Gillespie have been released.
Earlier in the week, investigators described the shooting as an isolated incident with no known danger to the public, according to WWAY News 3. That assessment was issued before Gillespie's death was confirmed and before the murder charge was filed against Banner.
What Remains Unknown
Investigators have not released the circumstances surrounding the shooting or any information about what led up to the confrontation on MLK Drive. No court date, attorney information, or plea has been made public as the case moves forward. Police have indicated the investigation is ongoing, and further details may be released as the case develops.
