NORLINA, N.C. — What began as a frightening night for one family in Warren County has now led to four young men facing serious charges after a coordinated investigation involving local, state, and federal authorities.
On August 6, 2025, deputies from the Warren County Sheriff’s Office were called to 903 US Highway 1 in Norlina after receiving reports of shots fired into an occupied residence. When deputies arrived, they confirmed that the home had been struck multiple times by gunfire while people were inside. Fortunately, no one was injured.
Initial Pursuit and Arrest
Within minutes of the call, a Warren County detective spotted a vehicle suspected of being connected to the shooting. When law enforcement attempted to stop the car, the driver fled, triggering a pursuit through Warren County that ended when the suspect’s vehicle collided with a Sheriff’s Office patrol unit.
The driver, identified as 20-year-old Zacceus Harrington of Norlina, was immediately taken into custody. Deputies recovered a semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine as well as additional evidence tying him to the crime. Harrington now faces multiple charges, including:
- Felony Flee to Elude Arrest with a Motor Vehicle
- Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling
He has since been confined in the Warren County Jail.
Expanded Investigation
As detectives continued to investigate, three more suspects were identified in connection to the shooting. Each was linked to the gunfire that struck the Norlina home and to additional criminal activity.
On September 11, 2025, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office executed three search and arrest warrants—two in Warren County and one in neighboring Vance County. The operation was carried out with assistance from:
- North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Raleigh/Durham Safe Streets Task Force under “Operation Summer Heat”
- Vance County Sheriff’s Office
During the coordinated operation, law enforcement seized multiple items of evidence, including an AR-style rifle.
Three More Arrests
Authorities confirmed the arrests of the following individuals:
- Jahiem Johnson, 20, of Norlina
- Markavious Townes, 20, of Henderson
- Elijah Williams-Harrison, 21, of Warrenton
All three men were charged with a combination of the following offenses:
- Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling
- Going Armed to the Terror of the Public
- Injury to Real Property
- Discharging a Firearm in the City Limits
Each suspect was booked into the Warren County Jail without bond.
Sheriff’s Statement
Sheriff John Branche issued a statement praising the work of law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation:
“This was a dangerous case from the very beginning. Thanks to the quick action of our deputies and the collaboration with our state and federal partners, we were able to take several dangerous individuals off the streets. I want to thank the SBI, FBI, and Vance County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance, as well as the men and women of the Warren County Sheriff’s Office for their dedication and professionalism.”
Community Impact
The shooting, which occurred in a residential area, rattled the Norlina community. Residents expressed relief following the arrests, noting that the violence highlighted ongoing concerns about gun crime and gang activity in the region. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that additional charges could be forthcoming.
Authorities are asking anyone with further information related to the August 6 shooting or other gun-related incidents in the area to contact the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.
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