Hoke County, North Carolina – Joann Nicole Chavis, 46, and Matthew Chavis, 53, were tragically found dead inside their home on Cope Road in Raeford on October 27. Deputies responding to a reported medical emergency shortly after 6 p.m. discovered the couple, their bodies bearing multiple stab wounds. What began as a routine call quickly escalated into a homicide investigation.
The Chavis family had been caring for a 17-year-old foster child, identified only as D.P., who became the central focus of the investigation. Following the discovery of the Chavis’ deaths, authorities determined that the teenager had fled the home in a vehicle, prompting an immediate and coordinated search involving multiple agencies.
Local law enforcement quickly requested support from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, along with other regional agencies. Officers worked tirelessly throughout the evening to locate the teen and ensure public safety, setting up roadblocks and checking known locations in surrounding counties.
Late that night, D.P.’s vehicle was located near Lake Waccamaw at the Boys & Girls Homes of North Carolina campus. The facility was immediately placed on lockdown while officers conducted a thorough search of the grounds, ensuring that students and staff were safe as law enforcement moved through the area.
In an isolated section of the campus, officers discovered D.P., who had sustained a gunshot wound. Emergency personnel attempted to provide lifesaving measures at the scene, but the teen was pronounced deceased. Investigators believe the wound was self-inflicted. The loss of life has left the community grappling with shock and sorrow.
Authorities have not publicly released details regarding the events leading up to the deaths of Joann and Matthew Chavis or what may have occurred between the foster parents and the teenager. Detectives emphasized that the case is ongoing and that no conclusions should be drawn prematurely while the investigation continues.
Family, friends, and neighbors have expressed deep grief over the sudden and violent deaths. The Chavis household had been known as a stable and supportive environment for foster children, and the unexpected tragedy has sent ripples of sadness throughout Raeford and Hoke County.
Investigators are asking anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist in piecing together the sequence of events. Law enforcement emphasized that even minor details, such as movements in the neighborhood or interactions leading up to the incident, could be crucial.
The case has also prompted discussions about support systems for foster youth and the resources available to families and agencies working with at-risk teenagers. Community members and officials are calling for reflection on ways to prevent future tragedies and provide more comprehensive support for children in foster care.
As the investigation continues, the Chavis family and the broader community are left to mourn and process the loss. Authorities continue to work diligently to gather facts, hoping that clarity will emerge in the coming weeks. In the midst of grief, many are hoping the family finds some measure of peace and comfort following this heartbreaking and complex incident.
