Hope Mills, NC – Authorities are actively seeking a suspect in the recent murder of a Fort Liberty soldier, which occurred near a local car wash in Hope Mills. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office has identified the suspect as 29-year-old Leavell Malik Lamont Jenkins, who is wanted on charges of first-degree murder and armed robbery.
The investigation was sparked by the tragic death of the soldier, identified through family members as McKinnon. According to McKinnon’s mother, Kisal Gilchrist, her son was seen leaving a nearby 7-Eleven on Ramsey Street shortly before he was shot, following an altercation.
Described as a tall, slender man standing between 6 feet 1 inch and 6 feet 4 inches and weighing around 150 pounds, Jenkins is distinguishable by a distinctive rose tattoo on his left palm. He has black hair and brown eyes.
In addition to seeking Jenkins, the sheriff’s office is also looking for two Fayetteville men, 24-year-old Keymonte Raquan Johnson and 22-year-old Jaheem Murchison, to question about their possible involvement in the homicide. Initially, authorities were also looking for a 19-year-old woman in connection with the case, but she has since been cleared of any involvement.
The search for Jenkins and the questioning of potential witnesses or accomplices form part of a broader effort by local authorities to understand the circumstances leading up to the fatal shooting. The community, particularly those in the vicinity of Ramsey Street and the car wash where the incident occurred, have been asked to come forward with any relevant information.
Anyone with information that might assist in locating Jenkins or Johnson, or who has insights into the murder, is encouraged to contact Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Detective Senior Sergeant R. Brinkley at (910) 677-5503. The sheriff’s office is urging the public to help in bringing resolution to this case and providing justice for the victim and his family.
The loss of a soldier from Fort Liberty has reverberated through the community, with residents and fellow service members expressing shock and grief over the incident. Fort Liberty has historically been a close-knit community, with many emphasizing the importance of supporting one another during such challenging times.
As the investigation continues, community leaders and law enforcement officials stress the importance of collaboration and vigilance to prevent such incidents in the future and to ensure the safety and security of all residents.