Greenville, NC – In a tragic incident that left three people dead, the courageous actions of a grieving son might have prevented further violence. Authorities in Pitt County detailed how the quick-thinking of a man, who lost both his parents in a deadly shooting, could have curtailed a potentially broader attack.
Last Friday, a suspect identified as 55-year-old David Lever of Greenville was arrested under dramatic circumstances. He was reportedly held at gunpoint by the son of two of his victims, Anthony Gribble, 80, and Paula Gribble, 76, until law enforcement could intervene. The son acted promptly after discovering the gravitas of the situation when his parents were fatally shot at their home.
During an initial court appearance on Monday, Lever faced charges related to the murders, including the killing of a third victim, 64-year-old Enrique Reyes. According to officials, Reyes was discovered deceased outside his home, having been shot multiple times. The proximity of these events paints a troubling picture, as Reyes lived only four doors down from Lever’s residence.
Pitt County Sheriff Paula Dance reflected on the severity of the situation, expressing her condolences to the victims’ families and acknowledging the son’s decisive action that potentially saved lives. “This kind of intervention was crucial in averting a larger tragedy,” Dance stated.
Inside Lever’s home and van, deputies uncovered an arsenal consisting of at least 50 firearms along with considerable amounts of ammunition, hinting at the possibility of further planned violence. Dance provided a timeline of events that led to the capture of Lever, noting that law enforcement was initially alerted to his erratic behavior earlier in the day after he was seen getting gas and subsequently firing shots.
The case took a turn when at approximately 2:17 p.m., the police received a call from the eldest Gribble son, reporting the shooting of his parents and informing the dispatcher that he was holding the suspect at gunpoint. Lever, upon being confronted, chillingly admitted to the murders, according to police reports.
Further investigations revealed that Lever had known the Gribble family for years, having acted as their real estate agent in 2014. Allegations have surfaced regarding Lever’s mental health and substance abuse issues, which might have contributed to the tragic events.
Adding to the complexity of Lever’s background are multiple encounters with law enforcement dating back to 2010, involving complaints ranging from domestic disputes to mental health concerns.
As the community reels from the shock, the court has denied bond for Lever, appointing a capital defender to represent him with his next court appearance scheduled for late January.
The profound impact of this crime extends beyond the immediate loss of life, highlighting critical issues related to mental health, gun control, and the importance of community vigilance. As this case unfolds, it will perhaps provide further insights into the intertwining of personal turmoil and public safety.