On a somber Friday afternoon, December 20, 2024, a routine trip to the Walmart on Fayetteville Road in Lumberton, North Carolina, turned into a tragic and horrifying scene of violence that claimed the life of 42-year-old Brandy Olson. A beloved member of the Lumberton community and a mother-to-be, Olson was fatally struck by gunfire in an incident that shocked the small city and left residents grappling with grief and unanswered questions. Authorities have identified two suspects, 17-year-old Ezekiel Burden and 18-year-old Brian Campbell, in connection with the shooting, and both remain at large. The Lumberton Police Department has launched an intensive manhunt to locate the pair, who now face serious charges, including first-degree murder and accessory after the fact.
The shooting unfolded inside the Walmart around 3 p.m. near the Woodforest Bank branch, a spot typically bustling with customers conducting their daily business. According to law enforcement, the suspects, Burden and Campbell, entered the store with the intent of targeting two individuals they knew who were standing in line at the bank. It was during this confrontation that shots were fired, with at least one bullet fatally striking Olson, an uninvolved bystander who happened to be standing nearby. Lumberton Police Chief Michael McNeill described the incident as “an unthinkable act of violence that claimed an innocent life,” emphasizing the urgency of capturing the suspects to prevent further harm.
Olson, a resident of Lumberton and well-known for her warm personality and involvement in community activities, was rushed to the hospital following the shooting. Witnesses on the scene attempted to administer life-saving measures before emergency responders arrived, but despite their efforts, Olson succumbed to her injuries shortly after arriving at the medical facility. In a tragic turn, it was later revealed that Olson was pregnant at the time of her death, compounding the heartbreak felt by her family and the community.
Authorities have since issued warrants for the suspects. Burden, a 17-year-old, is charged with first-degree murder and multiple weapons violations, including possession of a firearm by a minor. Campbell, 18, faces charges of accessory after the fact, suggesting his involvement in assisting or aiding Burden in some capacity following the shooting. The police have appealed to the public for assistance in locating the suspects, urging anyone with information about their whereabouts to come forward immediately.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the Lumberton Walmart remained closed for several hours as law enforcement conducted a thorough investigation of the scene. Crime scene tape cordoned off the area near the bank, and customers were evacuated from the store. Eyewitnesses described the chaos and fear that erupted as gunfire rang out, with many seeking shelter or fleeing to safety. “It was pure panic,” said one witness, who had been shopping nearby with her children. “You never expect something like this to happen in your town, let alone at a place like Walmart where so many families are.”
The broader implications of the incident have reignited debates about gun violence and safety in public spaces, particularly in smaller communities like Lumberton. While the suspects appear to have targeted specific individuals, the unintended death of Olson highlights the devastating collateral consequences of such acts of violence. Community leaders, advocates, and residents have called for renewed efforts to address gun violence and provide better resources for conflict resolution, especially among young people.
The Lumberton Police Department has been working closely with state and federal agencies, including the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), to track down Burden and Campbell. Police Chief McNeill expressed confidence in the investigation, stating that the department has already received numerous tips from the public. However, he cautioned that the suspects should be considered armed and dangerous and urged residents not to approach them if spotted. Instead, authorities have asked individuals to contact the Lumberton Police Department directly at 910-671-3845 with any information.
In a statement issued Saturday morning, Olson’s family expressed their profound grief and called for justice to be served. “Brandy was a loving mother, sister, daughter, and friend,” the statement read. “She had a heart of gold and a spirit that could light up any room. Her loss is immeasurable, and we are devastated by this senseless act of violence. We ask for privacy as we grieve and for the community’s support in ensuring those responsible are held accountable.”
The tragic loss of Olson has sent shockwaves through Lumberton, a city of just over 20,000 people located in Robeson County. Known for its close-knit community and Southern hospitality, Lumberton has rallied around Olson’s family, offering support through vigils, fundraisers, and an outpouring of condolences. Local businesses have organized fundraisers to assist with funeral expenses, while community members have gathered at the Walmart parking lot to leave flowers, candles, and handwritten notes in her memory.
This incident also marks a grim reminder of the rise in gun-related violence in the United States, even in smaller cities that were once considered relatively insulated from such crimes. According to data from the Gun Violence Archive, the United States has seen a marked increase in shootings in public spaces over the past decade, with grocery stores, malls, and schools becoming frequent targets. Experts attribute this trend to a combination of factors, including the proliferation of firearms, inadequate mental health resources, and societal pressures that often lead to violent confrontations.
In response to the shooting, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper issued a statement expressing his condolences to Olson’s family and condemning the violence. “The loss of an innocent life is always a tragedy, but it is especially devastating when it happens in such a senseless and preventable way,” Cooper said. “We must work together to create safer communities and address the root causes of violence that continue to plague our state and nation.”
As the investigation continues, many are left reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing time with loved ones. Olson’s death serves as a stark reminder of the random and often cruel nature of violence, and the collective responsibility of society to prevent such tragedies. For now, the focus remains on finding justice for Olson and her family, and on bringing Burden and Campbell to account for their alleged actions.
Funeral arrangements for Olson have not yet been announced, but her family has indicated that a public memorial service will be held to allow the community to pay their respects. In the meantime, the people of Lumberton remain united in their grief, their resolve to support one another, and their hope for a safer future. This tragic event has left an indelible mark on the community, and the memory of Brandy Olson will undoubtedly continue to inspire efforts to prevent such heartbreak in the years to come.
