Lumberton, N.C. woke up Sunday afternoon to heartbreaking news that cut deep into the city’s core. Jacari Clark, just 24 years old and a lifelong presence in the community, lost his life after a shooting at the Morgan Britt Park Apartments along NC 72 West. The shock of his death spread quickly, leaving neighbors, friends, and family stunned.
Deputies with the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office say the chain of events began shortly after 2 p.m. on February 1, 2026. Clark was rushed to UNC Southeastern Medical Center with gunshot wounds. Doctors fought to save him, but the injuries were too severe. He was pronounced dead a short time later.
Investigators believe the shooting stemmed from a domestic dispute at the apartment complex. What exactly happened in those moments is still being pieced together. Detectives from the Homicide and Criminal Investigations Divisions remain on the case, working to understand how a personal conflict turned deadly.
Law enforcement officials have made it clear this investigation is active and ongoing. They are urging anyone who saw something, heard something, or knows something to come forward. Even small details, they say, could matter. Tips can be shared directly with the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-671-3100.
For many in Lumberton, Jacari Clark was more than a name in a report. He was a familiar face. He was someone’s son, friend, cousin, and neighbor. People who knew him speak of his connections to others and the quiet ways he showed up for those around him.
As word of his death spread, grief settled heavily over the community. Conversations slowed. Social media filled with memories, photos, and short messages of disbelief. There is a shared sense that a young life was cut short far too soon.
Loved ones are now left holding on to memories while searching for answers. In the days ahead, they will grieve, remember, and try to make sense of a loss that feels both sudden and unfair. Lumberton, once again, is leaning on itself to get through another painful chapter.
