A quiet Harnett County neighborhood near Anderson Creek turned into the scene of a devastating triple homicide Tuesday evening.

According to The Christian Post, a 15-year-old boy is accused of fatally shooting his uncle, aunt, and grandmother—who had been caring for him in their home—before fleeing into the woods and later being arrested by law enforcement.

The incident took place inside a home on Kentucky Derby Drive in the Trotter’s Ridge neighborhood. Local authorities responded to a 911 call placed by a 10-year-old child who was also in the home at the time but was unharmed. Deputies arrived to find Danny Richards, 57, and his wife, Sabrina Richards, 54, dead at the scene.

Community Shocked by Deaths of Military Veteran Couple

Clara Richards, 74, Danny's mother, was still alive when emergency personnel arrived. She was transported to Womack Army Medical Center at Fort Bragg, where she later succumbed to her injuries. The teenager responsible for the shootings is the nephew of Danny and Sabrina Richards and had been living with the family.

After allegedly shooting the three family members, the teenager left the home in a vehicle. Authorities later found the vehicle abandoned in a wooded area off Nursery Road near N.C. Highway 87. Law enforcement searched the surrounding area.

The suspect was located nearby and taken into custody around 11 p.m. that evening. Due to the suspect's age, his identity has not been released to the public. The teen is currently being held at the North Carolina Juvenile Detention Center.

Victims Known for Public Service and Ministry

Danny and Sabrina Richards were not only members of the local community—they were respected veterans and community leaders. Both had served in the U.S. Army and had completed deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Danny Richards went on to found Genesis Grace Ministry based in Fayetteville following his military service.

The ministry focused on outreach efforts to support those experiencing homelessness in the region. Danny also worked collaboratively with local officials through the Cumberland County Continuum of Care on Homelessness, where he played an influential role in efforts to alleviate housing instability. His involvement was noted for being both humble and impactful.

Debbie Brown, chairperson of the Continuum of Care, spoke fondly of his character and contributions. “He didn’t want attention … he wanted to be able to do the work. He wanted to be able to impact his community in all aspects,” she said.

Legal Proceedings Begin for Teenage Suspect

Following the incident, legal charges were formally filed against the suspect. He was initially charged with two counts of first-degree murder related to the deaths of Danny and Sabrina Richards. After Clara Richards died in the hospital, a third count of first-degree murder was added.

The teen also faces charges of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, which also resulted in serious injury. Because the case involves a juvenile, additional legal steps will determine whether or not he will be tried as an adult. The process is likely to involve juvenile court assessments and input from prosecutors.

Harnett County investigators have not speculated on the motive behind the killings. The presence of the 10-year-old cousin, who alerted authorities and was unharmed, remains a key part of the investigation. Law enforcement has not released further information on the events leading up to the incident.

Neighborhood and Wider Community in Mourning

Neighbors have expressed disbelief that such violence could happen within their close-knit community. Several noted that the Richards family had kindly taken the teen into their home, offering him shelter and guidance. Many residents are grappling with the shock and grief of losing respected and caring neighbors.

Debbie Brown called the loss a tragedy that reverberates beyond the immediate family. “Their absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved them,” she said. “In this time of sorrow, I invite you to hold their family, friends, and our community in your thoughts and prayers in whatever way is meaningful to you.”

Community organizations and local leaders expect to arrange memorials in the coming days to honor the lives and legacy of the Richards family. For many, the impact the couple made during their lives will continue to resonate long after their passing.