PLYMOUTH, North Carolina wakes to grief and shock after a brutal early‑morning shooting left 36‑year‑old Devonelle Brimage dead and his infant child injured but alive. Around 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday, police were called to Latham Avenue following reports of multiple gunshots. What responders found was a small car parked in a driveway with Brimage slumped behind the wheel and an 8‑month‑old baby in his arms.
Brimage was already gone when emergency workers arrived. Officers administered first aid, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. In the back seat was 38‑year‑old Avione Webb, also shot and seriously hurt. Plymouth police and EMS rushed Webb and the baby to the hospital. Webb was later moved to a larger medical center for treatment, while the infant’s injuries were determined to be non‑life‑threatening and the child has since been released.
Friends describe Brimage as a devoted father and a steady presence in his neighborhood. Those who knew him say he was deeply involved in his child’s life and always willing to stop and smile or talk with neighbors. In a quiet community like Plymouth, where people often look out for one another, his sudden death left many struggling to make sense of what happened.
Police have been tight‑lipped about a possible motive or suspect. Investigators from the State Bureau of Investigation and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office are working with Plymouth officers to piece together what led to the shooting. Residents have been urged to come forward if they witnessed anything or have information that could help authorities as the investigation continues.
Family members held an informal vigil later that morning on Latham Avenue. Flowers, toys and handwritten notes appeared on the curb near where the car had been. People shared quiet hugs and stories of Brimage’s warm laugh and the way he lit up when talking about his baby. Many said the hardest part was knowing his last moments were spent trying to protect his child.
Across town, friends set up a small memorial with candles and photos of Brimage smiling with family. Neighbors spoke of his generosity and the everyday kindnesses he offered without fanfare: helping carry groceries, checking on elders nearby, or simply greeting people by name. In a place like Plymouth, those are the traits that stay with you.
As the community mourns, support has poured in for the grieving family. Local churches and civic groups have pledged to help with funeral expenses and childcare. Many say they want Brimage remembered not for the violence that ended his life but for the love he showed and the lives he touched each day.
