Gunfire Erupts at Toddler’s Funeral in Burlington, Police Chase Ends in Crash Into Home
BURLINGTON, N.C. — What began as a solemn farewell for a young child turned into a scene of chaos and fear Saturday afternoon in Burlington. A fight outside a funeral service escalated into gunfire, a police chase, and a crash into a nearby home, leaving two people in custody and a community shaken.
Chaos Outside Funeral Service
Police say the incident unfolded shortly after 2 p.m. Saturday at Rich and Thompson Funeral Home, where a service was being held for a 2-year-old child.
According to the Burlington Police Department, officers were called to the scene after a 911 report of a fight following the service.
Investigators say Trevonte Jaquan McGhee, 24, stepped outside during the disturbance and fired multiple rounds from a rifle, escalating the situation rapidly.
Police Chase Ends in Crash
Witnesses told dispatchers the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle.
Police attempted to stop the car, but authorities say the driver—Cazari Monique Russell, 24—refused to pull over, leading officers on a chase.
During the pursuit:
- McGhee allegedly threw the rifle from the vehicle
- The vehicle lost control and crashed into a home
- Russell was detained at the scene
- McGhee fled on foot but was quickly apprehended
Charges Filed Against Both Suspects
Authorities say both individuals now face multiple charges.
Trevonte Jaquan McGhee is charged with:
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Going armed to the terror of the people
- Discharging a firearm within city limits
- Disorderly conduct at a funeral home
- Leaving the scene of a crash (passenger)
Cazari Monique Russell is charged with:
- Going armed to the terror of the people
- Misdemeanor conspiracy
- Reckless driving
- Failure to stop at a stop sign or flashing red light
Both were transported to the Alamance County Jail.
Understanding the Charges
The charge “going armed to the terror of the people” is a common-law offense in North Carolina, applied when someone carries a weapon in a manner that causes public fear or disruption.
Additionally, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a serious felony offense under state law.
Both suspects are presumed innocent, and the case remains under investigation.
No Injuries Reported, Rifle Recovered
Despite the intensity of the incident, police confirmed:
- No injuries were reported
- The rifle used in the shooting was recovered
- There is no ongoing threat to the public
Police Seek Additional Information
Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
- Burlington Police Department: 336-229-3500
- Alamance County-Wide Crimestoppers: 336-229-7100
Conclusion
What should have been a moment of mourning turned into a dangerous and deeply unsettling event. While no lives were lost in the chaos, the incident underscores how quickly situations can escalate—and the lasting impact such disruptions have on already grieving families and communities.
Photos: Alamance County-Wide Crimestoppers