Captain Bobby Martin of the Roanoke Rapids Police Department said the charge against 18-year-old Emya Jahne Boone stems from her being in charge of a party where minors consumed alcohol and engaged in other illegal activity such as smoking marijuana.
From what investigation has shown, Martin said, minors ranging in age from 14 to 18 attended the party located at the post home on East Eighth Street.
Martin declined comment on the reason for the December 15 party.
Investigator G.L. Williams arrested and charged Boone, of Roanoke Rapids, Wednesday morning, Chief Chuck Hasty said in a statement.
She received a $1,000 bond and January 16 court date.
Martin said the apparent altercation which led to the shooting is not expected to affect the post’s ability to rent the building for functions. “They have a set standard policy in effect that whoever rents the building has to abide by their rules. They do their part.”
Meanwhile, Hasty said in the statement, Williams arrested and charged Donovan Demetree Edwards, 22, of Roanoke Rapids, Wednesday with possession of firearm by felon and simple affray.
Martin said the possession of firearm by felon charge against Edwards reflects he attended the party while allegedly in possession of a weapon.
The simple affray charge, Martin said, is unrelated to the AMVETS party and stems from a matter which occurred at Walmart.
The victim in the case remains hospitalized and continues to undergo treatment for the injuries sustained when he was shot numerous times in the torso, Martin said.
Martin said investigators believe at some point during the party there an altercation which led to the shooting. “We don’t know what happened. We know there was an altercation and an innocent bystander was struck.”
Hasty said he was pleased with the direction of the investigation. “We are working hard at it. We’re making progress.”
Police continue to look for the shooter.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call Martin at 252-533-2820, Williams at 252-533-2821 or Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.
