Lenoir County, NC, Plagued by Violent Incident: 34-Year-Old Lonneil Mason Accused of Shooting at Three Amazon Delivery Vans, Crashing into Multiple Vehicles, Leaving Trail of Destruction and Chaos
A shocking and disturbing series of events unfolded on Sunday morning in Lenoir County, North Carolina, as 34-year-old Lonneil Mason allegedly went on a rampage, shooting at three Amazon delivery vans and crashing into multiple vehicles, leaving a trail of destruction and chaos in his wake.
*Incident Unfolds on N.C. 11*
According to authorities, Mason was behind the wheel of a 2011 white BMW, traveling north in the southbound lane of N.C. 11 when he struck three vehicles. The first vehicle lost a side mirror, while the second vehicle, an SUV, was struck head-on, critically injuring two female occupants. The third vehicle, a truck hauling mowers, was also hit, but no injuries were reported.
Mason himself sustained serious injuries in the crash and was airlifted to ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, where he remains in critical but stable condition.
*Prior Shootings at Amazon Vans*
Before the collisions, deputies say Mason opened fire on three Amazon delivery vans in separate locations. The shootings, which began at approximately 10:15 a.m., were carried out from his moving vehicle.
The first incident occurred on Felix Harvey Parkway, where Mason allegedly shot at two vans driven by female drivers. One bullet pierced a passenger door, while another shot, fired from an AR-15 pistol, went through the back of the van, damaging multiple packages.
The second incident occurred on N.C. 11, where Mason fired at a third van, striking the driver’s side. This van was driven by a male Amazon worker. Miraculously, none of the Amazon drivers were injured.
*Investigation and Charges*
The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, with assistance from the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and other local law enforcement agencies.
Mason has been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and shooting into occupied vehicles. He is also facing charges related to the collisions, including reckless driving and failure to maintain lane control.
*Concerns Over Mason’s Past*
Lonneil Mason’s violent outburst has raised concerns about his past and potential warning signs that may have been missed. According to public records, Mason had been incarcerated from July 2009 until December 2020, serving time for various crimes, including assault and robbery.
The incident has sparked a broader conversation about public safety, mental health, and the need for support services to prevent such violent outbursts.
*Community Reacts*
The Lenoir County community is still reeling from the shocking incident, with many expressing outrage, concern, and sadness.
“I’m just grateful that no one was killed,” said one resident. “It’s just unbelievable that someone could do something so reckless and violent.”
Others have taken to social media to express their support for the Amazon drivers and the injured victims, as well as to call for greater accountability and support for individuals struggling with mental health issues.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on high alert, seeking answers and reassurance in the aftermath of this disturbing incident.
