Danny Richards dies in fatal Lillington, N.C. shooting.

Danny Richards dies in fatal Lillington, N.C. shooting.

Fatal Lillington, N.C. shooting death of Danny Richards.

Law enforcement authorities in Lillington, North Carolina, have apprehended a 15-year-old male for involvement in a murder probe. In the incident, a third individual lost their life due to injuries caused by firearms. Emergency dispatchers received a call from a child, aged 10, who resided at the location, indicating that several family members had been shot. This minor was uninjured at the time of the 911 alert.

Initial reports from local media indicated that officials discovered three people with bullet wounds at a residence on Kentucky Derby Lane. Two victims were pronounced deceased at the scene, while a third person was transported to a hospital. Deputies later confirmed that the third fatality resulted from the gunshot injuries suffered during the attack.

According to the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office, the three victims were identified as Danny Richards, age 57; his spouse, Sabrina Richards, age 54; and his mother, Clara Richards, age 74. The violence occurred during a birthday celebration for Sabrina Richards. The 15-year-old individual suspected of the crime is the nephew of the deceased. Investigators located him in a forested area near Highway 87 and Nursery Road in Spring Lake after he attempted to flee the crime site in a vehicle.

Prosecutors have filed charges against the minor, including three counts of first-degree murder. He is currently being held at a detention facility in North Carolina.

The Richards family operated the Genesis Grace religious congregation, where Danny Richards served as a spiritual leader. Their church was actively involved in community service, assisting the homeless population. Both Danny and Sabrina had prior military experience, with Danny retiring after a three-decade career and Sabrina following 14 years of service. At the time of the tragedy, the family was providing support and care for their nephew.

A family acquaintance and church member described the group as a close-knit religious community. “We were a small, intimate church,” they shared. “But serving the Lord didn’t require grand gestures. They were devout individuals who always helped others, and our church regularly provided meals for the homeless each month. They welcomed anyone in need into their doors. Sometimes, there are limitations to what we can do.”

The same church member added, “A wonderful family,” expressing profound sorrow. “This is utterly devastating. It feels unreal, and the pain is still overwhelming.”