Durham, N.C. — Police have arrested two individuals in connection with a deadly shooting that occurred in early January on Hillsborough Street, resulting in the death of a local man and injuries to another.
Irease Jeffrey was fatally shot while driving his vehicle, with a female passenger sustaining serious injuries. In the days following the incident, investigators worked diligently to identify and apprehend suspects. On January 21, warrants were issued for the arrest of 25-year-old Tony Lamont Scott II and 26-year-old Aryahna Kiara. Kiara was taken into custody the following day, while Scott was arrested on February 4.
Both suspects face multiple charges, including murder, two counts of felony conspiracy, and assault with a deadly weapon with the intent to kill or inflict serious harm. According to the arrest warrants, investigators allege that the defendants conspired to attack Jeffrey and the passenger using a 9mm handgun, targeting Jeffrey in the neck and the passenger in the head.
Court documents reveal that neither Scott nor Kiara has any prior violent felony convictions, although they do have minor traffic infractions. Scott has previously faced misdemeanor charges related to drug possession and carrying a concealed weapon, both of which were ultimately dismissed.
In the wake of the tragedy, a family friend of Jeffrey described him as an aspiring musician known as “Billy Resio.” He had recently signed a record deal and was seen as a rising star in the local music scene. Michael Mitchell, a close associate, expressed his deep sorrow over Jeffrey’s untimely death, recalling their conversations about future plans, which included a potential move to Miami for better opportunities.
As the investigation continues, both defendants have been ordered to refrain from any contact with the surviving victim as well as with one another. Kiara is scheduled to appear in court on February 12, while Scott will make his first court appearance on February 5. The case remains under investigation as authorities seek to gather additional details surrounding the events that led to the fatal shooting.