Family Mourns Zebulon Man Fatally Shot on Thanksgiving Morning
ZEBULON, NC – A Zebulon family’s Thanksgiving turned tragic when 55-year-old Robert Cummings was shot and killed early Thursday morning, just hours before his family was set to gather for the holiday.
Police responded to a report of gunfire on West Barbee Street near Primrose Place shortly before 1:30 a.m. Upon arrival, officers found Robert Cummings unresponsive in the yard of a home across the street from where he lived. He was transported to a local hospital but later died from his injuries.
A Family Devastated
Robert’s son, Damain Cummings, shared the shock and heartbreak of losing his father so suddenly.
“My brain is still processing it,” Damain said. “I heard the gunshots from my house across the street, but I didn’t know they were related to my dad until his girlfriend came pounding on my door.”
Damain said the shooting stemmed from an argument between his father, his uncle, and a group of people outside the uncle’s home. Investigators believe alcohol played a role in the altercation.
“You took somebody else’s life,” Damain said. “Just imagine if that was your child or your dad. How would you feel?”
A Quiet Neighborhood Shaken
Robert’s mother, Cora, lives nearby and said she heard the shots that ended her son’s life.
“I heard two shots, and I said, ‘That sounds just like Robert,'” she recounted.
Robert, remembered as a talented artist and skilled mechanic, was the family’s go-to person for car advice. Damain says he’s left without someone to turn to for help or guidance.
“Anything with cars, I could ask him,” Damain said. “Now I don’t have anybody to ask.”
A Plea for Answers
The Zebulon Police Department has yet to announce any arrests or suspects. Investigators suspect the group involved in the argument left the scene but returned to confront Robert. Damain and his family are urging anyone with information to come forward.
“My thing is, put yourself in my shoes,” Damain said. “If this was your family member, wouldn’t you want answers?”
The family has launched a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral costs and other expenses as they grapple with the loss. What was meant to be a day of celebration and gratitude turned into one of grief and unanswered questions.
How to Help
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Zebulon Police Department at 919-823-1818 and request to speak with an officer.
The Zebulon Police Department remains on the case, with officers maintaining a presence on West Barbee Street as they work to uncover the details of what led to this tragic incident. Community members are urged to come forward with any information that could provide clarity and justice for the Cummings family.