CLINTON, NC — Tevin Bryant, a 31-year-old Clinton man, was arrested today and charged with murder following the September 21st shooting death of Joseph Melvin, 37, of Roseboro. The investigation, handled by the Clinton Police Department and the Sampson County District Attorney’s Office, remains active as authorities continue to probe the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to Clinton Police Chief Anthony Davis, the investigation is ongoing, and Bryant has been charged with one count of murder in connection with Melvin’s death. No additional charges have been filed at this time, and Davis emphasized that the police are still working with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) to further corroborate details.
The shooting occurred on September 21 at 1303 Beaman St., where officers responded to reports of gunfire. Joseph Melvin was transported to Sampson Regional Medical Center by a private vehicle, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. During the investigation, witnesses reported seeing a dark-colored SUV leaving the scene, which led police to find the vehicle parked at 465 Five Bridge Road. Bryant was found at the location, alongside Meredith Odum, a 36-year-old female from Clinton. While Bryant was detained for questioning, Odum has not been implicated in the shooting.
Police indicated that a potential argument may have escalated into gunfire, but the motive for the shooting is still under investigation. Davis expressed his gratitude to the community and the victim’s family for their patience as the investigation unfolds.
Tevin Bryant has been held without bond at the Sampson County Detention Center.
Authorities encourage anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Clinton Police Department at 910-592-3105 or submit anonymous tips via the Police Department’s tip line by texting 847411 and beginning the message with ‘tipcpd’.