On January 15, 2024, at about 3 p.m., two women were shot and killed outside their residences in the South Walk Townhomes community in Apex, North Carolina. Nancy Taylor, 69, and her neighbor Gabrielle Raymond, 37, were both fatally wounded. Neighbors said the suspect, 37-year-old Harry Hardman, had been acting erratically beforehand, swinging a pool cue and shouting in the neighborhood.

Reports say Taylor, who was active in the community and described by neighbors as friendly and dedicated to maintaining neighborhood standards, approached Hardman in an attempt to de-escalate. Hardman opened fire, and a dog was later found dead inside his home. Apex police located Hardman retreating into his residence while holding a rifle; after a brief standoff he exited and surrendered. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of animal cruelty and remains in custody. A search of the home turned up bullet holes and overturned furniture.

The Town of Apex held a vigil for the victims as the investigation into motive continues. If anyone knew Nancy Taylor or Gabrielle Raymond or has information about that afternoon, please come forward.