Nelson Mendez-Vasquez Obituary
Two individuals have been charged in connection with a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday night in Durham, resulting in the injury of four people. Tragically, one of the victims, identified as Nelson Mendez-Vasquez, 27, from Durham, succumbed to his injuries shortly after being taken to the hospital. The shooting took place at the Duke Manor apartments on South Lasalle Street.
The authorities have arrested Yeltsin Cinto Orozco, 29, and William Antonio Sanchez-Vasquez, 42, and have charged them with first-degree murder, three counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to cause serious bodily harm, and discharging a weapon into an occupied property causing serious bodily injury.
The incident occurred at approximately 10:13 p.m. on Wednesday when three men and a woman arrived at Duke University Hospital seeking medical attention for gunshot wounds.
Officers arrested Yeltsin Cinto Orozco, 29, and William Antonio Sanchez-Vasquez, 42. Both men are charged with first-degree murder, three counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious bodily injury and discharging a weapon into occupied property causing serious bodily injury.
The woman’s injuries are reported to be life-threatening, while the two other men received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The police have been actively investigating the scene, with more than 15 evidence markers observed on the ground near the apartment complex. One resident in the area mentioned hearing gunshots and witnessing the subsequent police investigation, noting that the neighborhood is typically peaceful.
Law enforcement officials have stated that this shooting incident appears to be an isolated event. However, Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams addressed the incident during a work session, emphasizing the need to prioritize and address the issue of gun violence, which has unfortunately become a recurring occurrence in the city. Mayor Pro Tem Mark-Anthony Middleton also expressed concern about the impact of such violence on the community, highlighting the recent shooting of a 17-year-old.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
