Two men killed in shooting outside Whitakers Dollar General, deputies say

WHITAKERS, N.C. (WTVD) -- Two men are dead following a shooting Saturday morning outside a Dollar General in Nash County, according to the sheriff's office.

Deputies said they were called around 9:55 a.m. to the store located at 211 S. White Street in Whitakers after reports of a shooting.

When deputies arrived, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Authorities began life-saving measures, but the victim, later identified as Herbert Earl Lawrence Jr., died from his injuries.

As the investigation unfolded, deputies said a second victim was discovered nearby at the intersection of Nash and White streets. That man, identified as Wilbert Silver III, was also suffering from a gunshot wound. Despite efforts to save him, he also died at the scene.

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Investigators say preliminary findings indicate the two men were involved in a heated altercation that escalated into an exchange of gunfire. Both sustained fatal injuries.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing.

Officials have not released any additional details at this time, but say more information will be shared as it becomes available.

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