Durham Police Identify Lamarcus Alston, 45, as Victim in Fatal East Lawson Street Shooting; Community Grieves as Investigation Intensifies
The City of Durham is reeling in the aftermath of a tragic incident that claimed the life of 45-year-old Lamarcus Alston, who was fatally shot late at night on November 27, 2024. Alston, a long-time resident of Durham known for his ties to the local community, was found with multiple gunshot wounds on the 1200 block of East Lawson Street. The devastating event has not only left a family in mourning but also reignited discussions about rising gun violence and community safety in the region.
The Events of November 27
At approximately 10:43 p.m., a 911 call alerted the Durham Police Department to reports of a gunshot wound victim. Officers arrived swiftly to the scene, a quiet residential block off East Lawson Street, only to find a man suffering from grievous injuries. That man was later identified as Lamarcus Alston. Despite the rapid response of both police and emergency medical personnel, Alston was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing a series of gunshots moments before police arrived. “It was like a barrage of firecrackers,” said a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “I didn’t know what was going on until I saw the flashing lights and the police everywhere.” Residents described the area as normally peaceful but expressed growing concerns about recent incidents of gun violence in the vicinity.
The Victim: Remembering Lamarcus Alston
Lamarcus Alston was well-known in his East Durham community, described by neighbors and friends as a kind-hearted man who often lent a helping hand to those in need. Born and raised in Durham, Alston was deeply rooted in the city. He worked as a mechanic, a job he loved for its problem-solving nature and the opportunity it gave him to help others keep their lives moving.
“He was a gentle giant,” said an old friend, Marcus Henderson. “Always had a smile, always willing to help. He didn’t deserve this. No one does.” Friends and family gathered near the site of the shooting in the days following the tragedy, placing flowers and candles in his memory. A vigil is planned for the coming week to honor Alston’s life and call for peace.
Alston leaves behind two children, ages 15 and 21, as well as a tight-knit family who are grappling with the sudden and violent loss. His sister, Monique Alston, described him as “the backbone of our family” and called for justice in his name. “We want answers, and we want the person who did this to be held accountable,” she said.
The Investigation
The Durham Police Department has launched a full-scale investigation into the shooting. Lead investigator B. Garth, a veteran detective with years of experience handling violent crimes, is spearheading efforts to uncover the truth about what led to Alston’s untimely death.
As of now, authorities have not identified any suspects or publicly disclosed a motive. However, sources close to the investigation indicate that the shooting may not have been random, fueling speculation about potential underlying conflicts. Police are combing through surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses, interviewing witnesses, and processing forensic evidence from the scene.
Detectives are also appealing to the public for assistance, emphasizing the critical role community members can play in solving the case. “Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be the key to finding justice for Lamarcus Alston,” said Investigator Garth.
Community Safety Concerns
The incident has intensified ongoing concerns about gun violence in Durham, a city that has seen a notable increase in shootings over the past year. Residents of East Durham, in particular, have voiced fears about safety in their neighborhoods.
In recent months, community organizations and local leaders have been advocating for stronger anti-violence initiatives, including youth engagement programs, increased law enforcement presence, and resources for addressing the root causes of violence. The Durham Police Department has also ramped up efforts to combat gun violence through targeted patrols and collaboration with federal agencies like the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
However, many residents feel that more needs to be done. “We can’t keep losing people like this,” said Denise Carter, a longtime East Durham resident. “This isn’t just about Lamarcus—it’s about everyone who’s been affected by this cycle of violence.”
Calls for Justice
Alston’s family, friends, and supporters are calling for justice and urging anyone with information to come forward. The Durham Police Department has made it clear that all tips will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Anonymous tips can be provided through Durham CrimeStoppers, a trusted resource for community members who wish to share information without revealing their identities.
CrimeStoppers has offered a reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest in Alston’s case. Tips can be submitted by calling 919-683-1200 or through the organization’s online portal. “We need the community’s help to solve this case,” said Investigator Garth. “Every piece of information matters.”
A Community United
While the investigation continues, the East Durham community is rallying together to honor Alston’s memory and advocate for change. Grassroots organizations, faith leaders, and residents have planned a series of events, including a candlelight vigil and a community forum on gun violence prevention, to address the crisis and support Alston’s grieving family.
“We can’t let this be just another statistic,” said Reverend Paul Green of the East Durham Community Church. “Lamarcus’s life mattered, and his death should galvanize us to take action. We need to be the change we want to see in this community.”
Looking Ahead
As the investigation unfolds, the legacy of Lamarcus Alston will live on through the memories of those who loved him and the collective efforts of a community determined to see justice served. The tragic loss serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence and the urgent need for solutions.
For now, Alston’s family and the Durham community wait, hoping for answers and seeking peace in the face of unimaginable loss. Anyone with information that could aid the investigation is urged to step forward and help bring closure to a grieving family and justice for a life taken too soon.
