Nicholas Goolsby Obituary - Nicholas Goolsby Death - Simone Williams Murder - Apparent murder-suicide victims in Statesville identified

Three individuals involved in a tragic incident of apparent murder-suicide in Statesville on May 24 have been identified.

Responding to a report of gunfire on Bunker Hill Lane around 7 a.m., Statesville Police discovered 26-year-old Simone Octavia Williams deceased on the front porch. Witnesses recounted that 39-year-old Nicholas Goolsby shot Williams before retreating indoors. 

Subsequently, Rowan County Sheriff's Office and the U.S. Marshals Service Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force were called in. Utilizing an armored vehicle and a search robot, authorities entered the premises. Inside, a 10-month-old infant was found unharmed and safely retrieved by the Statesville Police Department’s Special Response Team, later entrusted to family care.

Upstairs in a bedroom, Nicholas Goolsby and 36-year-old Brandi Delia Goolsby were discovered. Evidence suggests Nicholas fatally shot Brandi before taking his own life. "We ask for the community's patience and cooperation as we continue our investigation," stated Statesville Police. "Our thoughts are with the families affected by this tragedy."

According to investigators, Williams resided at the residence with the Goolsbys.

WCNC Charlotte is extending support through their More Than A Number initiative, aiming to honor the lives impacted by this event. They encourage individuals to share memories and details about their loved ones affected by this incident for a broader commemoration.