Wilmington man charged for allegedly shooting a woman to death

WILMINGTON, N.C. – Police have arrested 36-year-old resident of Wilmington, Ray Anthony Southers, who is now facing the charge of First Degree Murder after a deadly shooting near Greenfield Lake. Police said that Mr. Southers allegedly shot a woman to death in the early hours of April 15.

According to reports, police responded to a shooting on April 15, 2020 just after midnight. A spokesperson for the Wilmington Police said that when officers arrived at the scene, they found the victim, 36-year-old Jody Marie Lopez, who was suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers performed life-saving measures until the victim could be transported by EMS to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, where she later died of her injuries, the spokesperson said. (sources: Port City Daily | WWAY TV).

Reports also state that Mr. Southers is a known felon with prior convictions including common law robbery and assault with a deadly weapon. He is now facing the following charges:

• First Degree Murder
• Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
• Assault by Pointing a Gun

Mr. Southers is currently being held in New Hanover County jail without bond.

In North Carolina, First Degree Murder is a capital offense. Those who are convicted of this crime could face life in prison or even death by lethal injection. North Carolina is one of twenty states that enforce the death penalty. Learn more about murder laws here.

If you are charged with any of the offenses mentioned in this case, having strong legal advocates on your side is a great advantage. Call to get a free consultation with the attorneys at Marcilliat & Mills PLLC.

All individuals accused of crimes are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.