A tragic shooting incident occurred in Wilmington, North Carolina, on February 13, 2025, resulting in the death of 36-year-old James Scott. The Wilmington Police Department (WPD) responded to the scene, located off Kerr Avenue near Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, around 11 a.m. when they found Scott’s lifeless body in a wooded area near the 600 block of Barclay Hills Drive. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation, with the WPD Criminal Investigation Division taking charge of the case.
The events leading up to Scott’s death are still unclear, but the details shared by law enforcement have provided some insight into the situation. WECT was able to obtain 911 calls related to the shooting, one of which indicated that the woman responsible for shooting Scott was still present at the scene and in a distressed state. When officers arrived, they found Scott with a gunshot wound to the chest, and EMS crews attempted to revive him. Despite their efforts, Scott was pronounced dead at the scene.
WPD has confirmed that a woman shot Scott with a handgun, and three suspects were detained in connection with the incident. In addition to the handgun, a knife was recovered from the scene, but no further details regarding its role in the shooting have been disclosed. Law enforcement has reassured the public that this appears to be an isolated incident, and there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Lt. Greg Willett, a spokesperson for the WPD, mentioned that the shooting took place on Duke Energy’s property, which is also known to be a makeshift campsite and a common area for homeless individuals. While it has not been confirmed whether the people involved were homeless or unsheltered, Lt. Willett indicated that it seems likely based on the location. This aspect of the case has drawn attention to the issue of homelessness in Wilmington, with many wondering how this social problem may have played a role in the tragedy.
In the wake of the shooting, WECT’s news crew spoke with two individuals who claim to have witnessed the event. Although they declined to appear on camera, the witnesses stated that the woman involved in the shooting was familiar with Scott. They also asserted that the woman acted in self-defense, which could be an important aspect of the investigation moving forward. Law enforcement has not yet confirmed the validity of this claim, but it is likely to be a key point in determining the circumstances of the shooting.
The investigation into Scott’s death is ongoing, and police are asking anyone with information to come forward. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant details is encouraged to contact the Wilmington Police Department at (910) 343-3600 or use the anonymous Tip 411 app. It is crucial for law enforcement to gather as much information as possible to piece together what led to the fatal confrontation.
The case has raised several questions about the safety and well-being of the homeless population in Wilmington. The fact that the shooting took place at a known homeless encampment highlights the vulnerability of individuals who are living on the streets, often without access to basic necessities or protection. There is growing concern about how issues such as homelessness and mental health are being addressed in the city, and many are calling for increased support and resources for the unsheltered community. The tragic death of James Scott has only intensified this dialogue, prompting residents, advocates, and local authorities to reflect on how best to address these pressing issues.
As the investigation continues, it is essential to wait for more information before drawing conclusions about the nature of the incident. While the witnesses’ claims of self-defense are a critical element of the case, it remains to be seen whether they will hold up under further scrutiny. The WPD is committed to thoroughly investigating the shooting and ensuring that justice is served, whatever the outcome may be.
In the meantime, the Wilmington community is left grappling with the tragic loss of James Scott and the uncertainty surrounding his death. Family, friends, and loved ones are mourning the loss of a man whose life was cut short too soon. The public awaits further updates on the investigation, hoping that the truth will come to light and that those responsible will be held accountable.
The shooting incident off Kerr Avenue is just one example of the ongoing challenges faced by the community in Wilmington. As police continue their work, the city’s residents are left to reflect on the broader issues of homelessness, violence, and safety. It is crucial for all involved to work together to ensure that such tragedies can be prevented in the future and that individuals living in vulnerable situations have the support and protection they need.
The Wilmington Police Department will continue to keep the public informed as the investigation unfolds. For now, the community is urged to remain vigilant and supportive of those who may have witnessed the event or possess information that could help bring closure to the case. The ongoing investigation is crucial in determining the full details of what happened that fateful day, and all those involved in the case will likely face a long road to justice.
In conclusion, while much remains unknown about the shooting of James Scott, it is clear that the incident has sparked important conversations about homelessness, self-defense, and safety within the Wilmington community. As the investigation progresses, it is essential for law enforcement to continue their thorough work and for the public to offer any help they can. Only by working together can Wilmington begin to heal from this tragedy and ensure that justice is served for James Scott.
