ROANOKE RAPIDS, N.C. — A deadly shooting in the early morning hours of February 8, 2026, has left one woman dead and a man facing murder charges, according to the Roanoke Rapids Police Department. The incident happened in the parking lot of the Kirkwood Adams Civic Center, a well-known community location at the intersection of 11th Street and Hamilton Street, shocking residents in the area.
Police said officers were dispatched to the scene after reports of gunfire shortly after the incident occurred. When officers arrived, they observed a man later identified as Willie Holmes fleeing the area on foot. Officers immediately pursued Holmes, eventually detaining him near the intersection of 11th Street and Jackson Streets. During the arrest, police said Holmes was found to be in possession of a firearm.
The victim was identified as Priscilla Kee. Authorities said Kee suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was rushed to ECU Medical Center for emergency treatment. Despite life-saving efforts by medical staff, Kee later succumbed to her injuries. Her death has left family members, friends, and the wider Roanoke Rapids community grieving a sudden and violent loss.
Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an argument between Kee and Holmes. While police have confirmed the dispute played a role in the incident, they say the full circumstances leading up to the shooting are still under investigation. Detectives are continuing to review evidence, examine the scene, and interview potential witnesses to establish a clearer timeline of events.
Holmes has been formally charged with murder as well as possession of a firearm by a felon. He is currently being held at the Halifax County Detention Center without bond. Authorities have not released additional details about Holmes’ prior criminal history or whether the two individuals knew each other beyond the reported argument.
The Roanoke Rapids Police Department says the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be possible as more information becomes available. Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact Halifax County Crime Stoppers at 252-538-4444 or the Roanoke Rapids Police Department. Officials are asking the public’s help as they work to bring full clarity and justice in this tragic case.
