Shooting may mark end of parties in Bunnlevel

BUNNLEVEL, N.C. — A Bunnlevel shed known as a party spot has drawn the attention of law enforcement after two fatal shootings in two years.

Early Sunday morning, deputies responded to a shooting at 587 Nutgrass Road, Harnett County Sheriff Larry Rollins said. When they arrived, they were told the victim had been taken by private vehicle to a hospital. Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn reported that a gunshot victim had been brought there. Tony J. McKoy, 26, of Dunn, died at the hospital, Rollins said.

Neighbors say the backyard shed where McKoy was shot often draws dozens of party-goers on weekend nights.

"Sometimes at night, I can't sleep because the noise is so loud," said neighbor Jeanette McLean. "They just have the music – Boom! boom! boom!"

Investigators determined that about 20 to 30 people were there Saturday night. By the time deputies arrived, most had scattered.

In September 2007, Eric Sinclair Williams, 23, of Spring Lake, was killed when a fight at the shed escalated into gunfire. Two other men were injured.

The property owner said he tore down the building after the 2007 incident. After Sunday, he told WRAL News, he wants to keep the crowds away.

The sheriff's office and the state Alcohol Law Enforcement Division are taking steps to break up the party as well. A spokesman said the sheriff's office could file public nuisance charges against the owner.

Investigators have a person of interest in McKoy's death, but have made no arrests, Rollins said.