A man shot on MLK Drive in Bladenboro Oct. 19 has died, and his alleged assailant is now facing a murder charge.
Bladenboro Police announced on social media today (Oct. 23) that Mario Gillespie died from injuries sustained in the attack, which happened in the 800 block of MLK. Gilespie was airlifted to New Hanover Novant after the shooting and Joseph Allen Banner Jr. was arrested a short time later.
Banner was initially charged with attempted first degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was held without bond. His charges were upgraded today (Oct. 23).
Court documents show Banner was in possession of a .40 caliber Glock handgun at the time of his arrest. He was previously convicted of possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver cocaine in Robeson County Superior Court in 1996, and sentenced to 6-8 months in prison.
BPD said the case remains an active investigation.
