Deputies identify two men who died after shooting each other inside Nash County Dollar General

Nash County Sheriff’s Office identified the two men who died after a shooting Saturday morning.

Deputies were called at 9:55 a.m. to reports of a shooting inside a Dollar General on South White Street in Whitakers.

When they arrived, deputies said they found a man, later identified as 35-year-old Herbert Earl Lawrence Jr, who had been shot in the chest. Lawrence died from his injuries, deputies said.

While investigating, deputies found a second man just a half a mile away at the intersection of Nash and White Streets who had also been shot. Deputies later identified him as 32-year-old Wilbert Silver III. He also died from his injuries.

According to the investigation, deputies said the two men were arguing before exchanging gunfire. One of the men worked at the Dollar General.

During a press conference on Saturday, deputies said it is unclear if the two men knew each other. Deputies believe one employee was inside of the store, but no customers were inside during the shooting. 

Deputies say there is no threat to the public, but are asking residents to avoid the area. 

The investigation is still ongoing.