Jeron “King” Ellis
SALISBURY, N.C. — Family members have identified 17-year-old Jeron “King” Ellis as the victim of Sunday’s fatal shooting at the Han Dee Hugo gas station on East Innes Street.
Salisbury police responded to the gas station shortly after 2 p.m. Sunday after receiving reports of multiple people being shot. Investigators said two people were struck by gunfire. Ellis died from his injuries, while a second victim suffered minor injuries.
Police have not officially released the identity of the victim. The investigation remains active, and no arrests have been announced.
In a GoFundMe campaign created to help with funeral expenses, Ellis’ aunt said he was “simply going about his day when his life was taken in a senseless act of violence.”
She said Ellis had been living with her after his mother died from cancer last year.
“We want to honor his memory and lay him to rest with dignity,” she wrote, asking for community support to help cover funeral costs.
The family also expressed heartbreak over images of Ellis taken after the shooting being shared on social media, saying the photos circulated online while people mocked his suffering.
The GoFundMe page was later removed. No explanation for its removal has been publicly provided.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Salisbury Police Department or Rowan County Crime Stoppers.
The investigation remains ongoing.
