Suspect Arrested Following Homicide Investigation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

Salisbury Police Department
130 E. Liberty St.
Salisbury, NC 28144
(704) 638-5333 

Lieutenant J. Moreau
(704) 638-5367

Suspect Arrested Following Homicide Investigation

SALISBURY, N.C. — (May 1, 2026) — On Thursday, April 30, 2026, at approximately 8:56 p.m., officers with the Salisbury Police Department responded to a call at 726 Wiley Avenue concerning a disturbance and a man lying in the roadway.

Upon arrival, officers located Altereck Rashad Shields Jr. (DOB: 08/20/1998) in the roadway with apparent wounds to his chest and neck. Officers immediately rendered aid, and emergency personnel attempted lifesaving measures. Despite those efforts, Mr. Shields was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Salisbury Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division responded to investigate, with assistance from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. Through interviews and review of video evidence, detectives determined the events leading up to the incident.

Preliminary findings indicate that Mr. Shields and Jerome Lee Staples (DOB: 03/14/1980), were involved in a verbal dispute that escalated into a physical altercation at a family member’s residence. The altercation involved a knife, resulting in injuries to both individuals. The incident was witnessed by others at the residence.

Detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Jerome Lee Staples with Voluntary Manslaughter. He was taken into custody without incident.

There is no active threat to the community.

Chief Smith said the case reflects the department’s commitment to professionalism. “I’m proud of the work done by our patrol officers, Criminal Investigations Division, the State Bureau of Investigation, and our Victim Advocate managing this complex case. Our focus now is on supporting the victim’s family during this time, and we will continue working closely with them as the case moves through the justice process.”

This remains an active investigation.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Lt. Casper or Sgt. Hill at 704-638-5333.