Two suspects accused in a deadly shooting that killed two people and critically injured two others in North Carolina were found dead Friday in Ohio following a multi-state manhunt. The incident began Thursday morning in Gaston County, North Carolina, when police responded to a report of gunfire at a residence on Forbes Road.
Upon arrival, officers discovered four individuals with gunshot wounds. Two victims, identified as Victoria "Heather" Moore, 50, and Megan "Josiah" Bumgardner, 38, were pronounced dead at the scene. The two surviving victims were transported to CaroMont Regional Medical Center and were reported in critical but stable condition.
Investigators identified two residents of the home, Camryn Moore, 26, and Cory Armstrong, 29, as suspects in the violence. Authorities stated that Heather Moore was Camryn Moore's mother and Bumgardner was her uncle. Police believe all parties involved knew each other and described the shooting as an isolated event with no ongoing threat to the community.
Interstate Manhunt
Following the shooting, Camryn Moore and Armstrong allegedly fled Gaston County. Warrants were issued for their arrest, charging each with two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of attempted first-degree murder. The Gaston County Police Department, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, tracked the suspects' movements across several states.
On Friday morning, state troopers in Ohio spotted the suspects' vehicle outside Athens. When troopers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the vehicle failed to yield, leading to a multi-county pursuit. The chase ended when the suspects' vehicle crashed after swerving to avoid spike strips deployed by law enforcement.
Authorities reported hearing two gunshots from the vicinity of the wrecked vehicle. A drone was deployed to survey the crash site, revealing both Camryn Moore and Cory Armstrong deceased inside. The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating the pursuit, crash, and the manner of their deaths, as the specific details of who fired the shots remain undisclosed.
Community Reaction
Neighbors in Gaston County expressed shock and sadness over the violence that disrupted their typically quiet street. Loretta Forbes, a resident whose family has long ties to Forbes Road, stated she knew the family involved and described them as seemingly nice people.
Jennifer Greene, a friend and co-worker of Heather Moore, drove to the home after Moore failed to report for her shift. Friends remembered Heather Moore as a warm and loving individual.
The Gaston County Police Department issued a statement calling the event a tragic act of violence that resulted in significant loss of life and severe injuries. While the search for the suspects has concluded, the investigation into the incident is ongoing. Authorities are requesting anyone with information to contact Detective G. Lancaster or CrimeStoppers.