Area nonprofit leaders are mourning the tragic death of a woman who was fatally shot Saturday in Jacksonville.
Michael Ray Davis Jr., the husband of Staci Lee Davis, is facing a murder charge after allegedly shooting and killing his wife Saturday night near Williamsburg Parkway, said Capt. Christopher Funcke, with the Jacksonville Police Department.
Staci Lee Davis, a board member for One Place and the youth and family services director for New River YMCA, is being remembered for her service and the impact she made in the community.
Jacksonville police responded to a reported shooting in the area of Gum Branch Road and Williamsburg Parkway around 10:23 p.m. Saturday night.
When police arrived, they found Davis, who was 43, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound, Funcke said.
She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses described the suspect to police who found Michael Davis and took him into custody without incident. He was charged with an open count of murder and possession of a firearm by a felon, Funcke said.
The investigation revealed that Michael and Staci, who were married, had gotten into an argument before the shooting.
Nonprofit leaders released statements regarding the death of Davis on Sunday.
One Place Chief Executive Officer Dawn Rochelle called Davis a light in the community and said she believed deeply in children and families.
“In every space she entered, she brought encouragement, compassion and a willingness to serve,” Rochelle said. “Just hours before her passing, Staci spent time with us at an event, laughing, connecting and sharing the warmth that defined who she was.
“It is a moment we will hold close.”
In their statement, New River YMCA leaders said Davis was the heart behind much of the work they do, adding that her passion for serving local children and families could be seen in everything she touched.
YMCA leaders said she helped build a child care and preschool program that has become a trusted place for Onslow County families.
They called the loss of Davis “unimaginable.”
“Staci’s impact on our organization and our community will never be forgotten,” according to the YMCA statement. “The children she cared for, the families she supported and the colleagues she inspired will carry her legacy forward every day.
“During this incredibly difficult time, we ask our community to join us in praying for Staci’s family, her boys, her loved ones and our YMCA staff and families who are mourning her loss.”
Michael Davis is being held in the Onslow County jail without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 23.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact police detective J. Rankin at 910-938-6417 or jrankin@jacksonvillenc.gov. Crime Stoppers can be reached at 910-938-3273.
Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards of up to $5,000 for information determined to be of value to law enforcement. Information can be anonymously texted by typing TIP4CSJAX and your message to 274637.