BLADENBORO, N.C. (WECT) – The Bladenboro Police Department has upgraded charges against a man accused in a shooting earlier this week after the victim died from his injuries, police said.
Police said Mario Gillespie died from injuries he suffered in the Oct. 19 shooting on M.L.K. Drive in Bladenboro.
Joseph Allen Banner Jr. was charged Friday, Oct. 23, with murder in connection with Gillespie’s death, police said. The department said the case remains under active investigation.
Banner was originally arrested the night of the shooting and charged with attempted first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, police said.
Officers responded to the 800 block of MLK Drive just after 6 p.m. Monday, according to the department. Police said the victim was airlifted to New Hanover Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Several agencies assisted at the scene, including the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, Bladenboro EMS, AirLink 2 and the Bladenboro Fire Department, police said.
“Our hearts are heavy for Mario’s family and loved ones as they face this tremendous loss,” police said. “We have remained in contact with the family throughout this difficult time, and we extend our deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved Mario.”
Police said the department remains available to support Gillespie’s family “in any way we appropriately can.”
A magistrate ordered Banner held without bond at the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office Detention Center.
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