Garner man fatally stabbed, woman facing charges

GARNER, North Carolina (WTVD) -- A woman is facing charges in connection with a stabbing that killed a Garner man Sunday evening.

According to police, the incident happened around 6:45 p.m. on the first floor of the InTown Suites on US 70 West.

When officers arrived, they found 49-year-old Derik Fernandza Shaw suffering from several stab wounds. He was taken to WakeMed where he later died.

Authorities have charged 40-year-old Lakesha Nicole Johnson with voluntary manslaughter in connection with Shaw's death.

According to a 911 call, Johnson admitted to stabbing Shaw after an argument.

"We understand there was probably some arguments going on in between, before all this happened," Captain Joe Binns told ABC11. "This is not the first instance that I understand they've been in arguments before and not sure what the argument is about."

Investigators said they believe Shaw and Johnson were in a romantic relationship. Both were staying at InTown Suites, a type of extended stay hotel.

Police said Shaw was staying in a room upstairs with his wife, while Johnson lived downstairs where the argument started in room 110.

Captain Binns said it's unclear whether Johnson stabbed Shaw inside or outside the door of the room, but said Shaw left the room and died on the sidewalk.

Johnson's 5-year-old son was sleeping in the room the entire time, according to authorities.

"He did not witness anything that occurred. He was basically asleep during the entire incident," Binns said. "Did not wake up so he was uninjured unaware and he is with family safe."

Police said they don't have records of responding to disputes between the two.

They said Johnson claimed Shaw assaulted her, but evidence didn't show that.

Shaw's mother told ABC11 Monday that it was Johnson who assaulted her son. She said Johnston had told her that she was going to kill her son. But Shaw's mother said she didn't think Johnson would actually do that.

His mother said that her son was a good person.

Many of Shaw's friends said they will remember his sense of humor.