Richlands Fatal Shooting – Law enforcement agencies in Richlands, North Carolina, are actively investigating a fatal shooting that occurred Sunday afternoon near the intersection of Luther Banks Road and Gregory Fork Road, according to an official statement from the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded to the scene at approximately 3:27 p.m. on December 28, 2025, after receiving multiple reports of gunfire in a rural area close to LGM Church on Luther Banks Road. Upon arrival, officers encountered a chaotic scene and immediately began securing the area and rendering aid to victims.
Preliminary reports indicate that two people were critically injured in the incident. Authorities later confirmed that one of the victims succumbed to their injuries and died, while the other remains in critical condition at a nearby medical facility. Officials have not yet publicly released the names of the victims pending family notification.
According to local sources familiar with the situation, the deceased victim was identified as the owner of Sammy’s Used Cars, a well‑known local dealership located at 8702 Richlands Highway. It has been reported that the suspect in the shooting is the victim’s son, Craig North, though law enforcement has not officially confirmed this familial link.
The Onslow County Sheriff’s Office has issued a public safety alert urging residents to avoid the area as the investigation continues and efforts are underway to locate the suspect. Authorities believe the suspect may be traveling in a black Cadillac Escalade with dealer tags, and anyone who spots a vehicle matching that description is asked to contact law enforcement immediately.
In a statement, the sheriff’s office said, “Deputies are investigating a shooting in the area of Luther Banks Road and Gregory Fork Road. Law enforcement is currently on scene and continuing the search for the suspect. Please avoid the area. Updates will be shared as soon as possible.”
The circumstances leading up to the shooting remain unclear. While initial reports suggest a disagreement earlier in the day may have escalated, authorities have not provided specifics about what led to the violence. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and piece together a timeline of events.
The community in Richlands and the broader Onslow County remain on alert as the search continues. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official law enforcement channels and to report any information that could assist in locating the suspect. As the investigation is active and evolving, further updates are expected from the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office.
This tragic event has underscored concerns about community safety and domestic conflict, and underscores the importance of ongoing cooperation between law enforcement and residents in providing tips and leads that could aid the investigation.
