Johnny Donnell Williams was found shot and pronounced dead at the scene on Layola Drive in Rocky Mount on March 12, 2025, after officers arrived around 12:30 p.m. The initial circumstances were unclear and investigators opened a homicide probe.

Authorities identified a suspect and on March 20, 2025 the Rocky Mount Police Department, assisted by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, arrested 23-year-old Shakur Battle. Battle was charged with first-degree murder and taken into custody at the Nash County Jail without bond. Officials have not released a motive or named any other possible suspects.

The community has responded with grief and concern about gun violence as the case moves into the courts. If anyone has information about Johnny Donnell Williams, the shooting on Layola Drive, or relevant events around March 12, please contact the Rocky Mount Police Department.