A North Carolina State Highway Patrol sergeant has been charged in connection with the killing of a Cumberland County Sheriff's captain, who investigators allege was his love rival. Sergeant Nekime Matu Oxendine, 44, faces charges in the death of Captain Adam Bean, 42, who was fatally shot in March.
Investigators stated that Bean was killed outside a Hope Mills home. Responding officers found a woman performing CPR on Bean, who was later pronounced dead at the scene. According to a probable cause statement, the woman had been in long-term relationships with both Oxendine and Bean. She had initially dated Oxendine, then dated Bean, and subsequently returned to Oxendine after her relationship with Bean ended in December.
The probable cause statement details a series of text messages exchanged on the night of the shooting. Bean texted the woman expressing a desire to speak with her, but she declined. Bean then texted, "F*** it, I'll come to you," to which she responded, "Please don't." Bean arrived at the residence and reportedly appeared agitated, questioning why Oxendine's vehicle was parked outside.
Police report that Oxendine emerged from the home, prompting Bean to move aggressively towards him. Oxendine fired two warning shots at the ground, but authorities claim Bean continued his advance. Oxendine then fired two or three shots at Bean, who then stumbled and fell. Investigators suggest years of jealousy stemming from their shared relationship fueled the conflict.
Evidence in the probable cause statement indicates Oxendine had repeatedly accused the woman of being involved with Bean as early as 2022, sending her text messages such as, "I seen u have been talking to Adam!!! Best wishes!!! Better tell that motherf***** to get ready too!!!" The woman had also expressed concerns about Oxendine to Bean in January 2023, asking if he was worried about "Nick" (Oxendine). Bean responded that he was more concerned about their future together and having children, but acknowledged that Oxendine "continually pops up."
Even after the woman re-entered a relationship with Oxendine, he reportedly continued to view Bean as a rival, allegedly asking the woman if Bean was more attractive than him and referring to Bean as "the key to ur[sic] heart."
Oxendine is being held without bond following the charges. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol acknowledged the charges against Sgt. Oxendine, stating respect for the judicial process. The patrol is conducting its own internal investigation and Oxendine remains on administrative duty pending its outcome. This is a developing situation.
