A well-known community youth leader in Wilson is facing multiple murder charges after police say he opened fire at an apartment on Washington Street Monday afternoon, killing two people and injuring two others.
Police identified the suspect as Donta Maurice Chestnut, 39, of Wilson. Chestnut, a longtime mentor and founder of the local nonprofit Our Wilson, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted first-degree murder. Authorities confirmed that he is being held without bond.
Officers were called to the 900 block of Washington Street shortly after 2:00 p.m. Monday. When they arrived, they found Natasha Latrice Sutton, 44, and Avantae Pender, 21, both of Wilson, dead at the scene.
Two others were wounded in the attack: Tiffany Fogg, 37, who was rushed to Wilson Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries, and Tyron Sutton, 46, who was treated at the scene by EMS.
Investigators say Natasha Sutton was renting her apartment from Chestnut, though a motive for the shooting has not yet been released.
Chestnut is widely recognized in Wilson for his community involvement. Through Our Wilson, he worked to mentor young people, assist residents struggling with addiction, and provide outreach programs to local families. In 2023, he ran unsuccessfully for city council.
Neighbors and community members expressed shock over the arrest. Many described Chestnut as someone who used his life experiences to inspire youth and provide positive alternatives.
The victims’ relatives, meanwhile, say they are left devastated by the sudden violence. Natasha Sutton and Avantae Pender had only recently moved into the Washington Street apartment where the shooting occurred.
Wilson police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case. Chestnut’s next court appearance has not yet been announced.
Here’s more from CBS 17.
