Sharpsburg, NC — A tragic incident unfolded as a mother and her young daughter were killed in an appalling murder-suicide carried out by the father, authorities confirmed. The violence erupted just a day after the perpetrator, DaQuan Marcato Jones, was released from jail.
On the evening of August 11, an altercation escalated fatally when 32-year-old Jones used a firearm to kill 27-year-old Kiera Massenburg and their 6-year-old daughter, Zoey Jones. The incident tragically concluded at a home in Nash County, where the shooter later took his own life.
The Nash County Sheriff’s Office reported that another adult and a child were injured during the initial shooting, which added to the gravity of the scene. One survivor was critically injured, while the other has been discharged from the hospital.
After the initial shooting, Jones fled with Massenburg and their daughter in his vehicle. In a desperate move, he left the critically injured Zoey at another residence in Nash County. She was urgently transported to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries the following day.
Upon their arrival at a residential property on Jamie Road in Battleboro, law enforcement found Jones’ car and Massenburg’s lifeless body in the backseat. Before they could secure the scene, a gunshot was heard from inside the house.
Shortly afterward, a witness emerged from the home and informed the deputies that Jones had shot himself. His body was later found in a bedroom, confirming the self-inflicted nature of his death.
This horrifying event occurred shortly after Jones was released from the Edgecombe County Detention Center, where he had been held on charges of severe bodily assault against Massenburg. In July 2024, he was accused of attacking Massenburg, resulting in significant physical injuries.
It was revealed that Massenburg and Jones had been involved in a relationship, which tragically ended in this devastating incident. In remembrance of their lives, a GoFundMe page was set up to support the bereaved family and cover funeral expenses. The donation page highlighted Massenburg’s role as a loving mother and supportive friend, and young Zoey as a joyful and endearing child.
The local community and those affected by this tragedy are now dealing with the aftermath and the unfillable void left by the loss of Kiera and Zoey. As the investigation continues, authorities and community leaders are addressing concerns regarding domestic violence and the mechanisms of support available to those in harmful situations.
For anyone experiencing domestic violence, resources are available including a national hotline that provides support across multiple languages 24/7, ensuring those in need can find a safe haven and the necessary help to protect themselves and their loved ones.