Man Faces Charges After Fatal Shooting in Mineral Springs

MINERAL SPRINGS, N.C. — A tragic incident unfolded in the quiet town of Mineral Springs, Union County, as authorities reported a fatal shooting that resulted in the death of 29-year-old Justin Starnes and severe injuries to a woman believed to be his wife. The suspect, identified as 62-year-old Jeffery Lemmonds, now faces charges of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder in connection with the violent altercation that took place on Tuesday evening.

According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a distress call at a residence on Forest Green Drive late Tuesday night. Upon arrival, they discovered Starnes with fatal gunshot wounds. Despite efforts to save him, Starnes succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The victim was later identified as Justin Starnes.

Further investigation inside the residence revealed Lemmonds’ wife suffering from a severe head injury. While it remains unclear whether she was shot, authorities confirmed that multiple shots were fired during the altercation.

Lemmonds fled the scene before law enforcement arrived but was subsequently apprehended at a residence in Monroe. He is currently in custody without bond.

Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey expressed shock at the incident, stating that the shooting “escalated to an unnecessary level when the suspect introduced a gun and fired multiple shots in a reckless manner in an effort to kill members of his own family.”

Authorities have not disclosed the exact relationship between Starnes and Lemmonds, and further details surrounding the incident are yet to be revealed.

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