Justin Lewis McCarthy, a 27-year-old male from Jacksonville, NC, tragically lost his life on December 26, 2020. The incident occurred in the afternoon when Jacksonville police responded to a reported shooting at 109 Brenda Dr. Upon arrival, officers found McCarthy on the ground with a gunshot wound. Despite the efforts of Jacksonville Public Safety and Onslow County EMS, McCarthy was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into McCarthy's death revealed that the shooting was an isolated incident involving McCarthy and another individual. Captain Mike Capps of the Jacksonville Police Department stated that they were in the preliminary stages of the investigation but believed it to be an isolated incident. The police have not released any information about arrests, suspects, or potential motives related to the case.
However, they have urged anyone with information to contact Detective Jillian Wenderoth or Crime Stoppers, offering cash rewards for valuable information.
McCarthy's death has left a significant impact on his family and community. He is survived by his mother, Lora G. Morse, and step-father, Jerry L. Morse, both of Swansboro; his father, Anthony W. McCarthy of Waynesboro, VA; his brothers, Benjamin Aaron McCarthy of Swansboro, Curtis Hutchinson of Farmville, VA, and Spencer Morse of Jacksonville; and his sisters, Elizabeth Ann Albertine of Jacksonville and Emily-Marie J. Morse of Swansboro. A Celebration of Justin's Life was held on January 9, 2021, at Calvary Baptist Church in Jacksonville, officiated by Pastor Don Guldin.
The community continues to mourn the loss of Justin Lewis McCarthy, as the investigation into his death remains ongoing. The Jacksonville Police Department is committed to finding justice for McCarthy and his family, and they continue to seek any information that may help solve the case.
