Victim Identified in Fatal Shooting at College Lakes Rec Center — Fayetteville Mourns the Loss of 22-Year-Old Jalyn Thornton
FAYETTEVILLE, NC — A community is reeling after a tragic shooting unfolded on Sunday afternoon at the College Lakes Recreation Center, leaving a young man dead and many questions still unanswered. Jalyn Thornton, 22, has been identified as the victim in the fatal incident, which occurred during what should have been a routine and peaceful open gym session.
A Day Meant for Community, Marred by Violence
Around Sunday afternoon, Fayetteville Police received multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire inside the recreation facility, located just off Rosehill Road. When officers arrived on scene, they found Jalyn Thornton suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the rapid response from emergency services, Thornton was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving witnesses and loved ones in shock and disbelief.
According to initial reports, an altercation broke out during a basketball game inside the gym. Tensions reportedly escalated to the point where one individual left the premises, only to return shortly afterward armed with a firearm. Shots rang out in the gym, striking Thornton and sending people fleeing in fear for their lives.
A Massive Police Response
The Fayetteville Police Department, including detectives and a K9 unit, responded swiftly and secured the recreation center for several hours. Officers canvassed the area, gathered evidence, and interviewed witnesses in an effort to piece together the sequence of events and identify the suspect or suspects involved.
Despite the active investigation and visible police presence, no arrests have been announced, and no suspect description has been released at this time. Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that might lead to the apprehension of the shooter.
A Life Cut Short, a Community in Mourning
Jalyn Thornton’s death has sent shockwaves through the Fayetteville community. Just 22 years old, he was a young man with his life ahead of him—a son, a friend, a neighbor, and, by many accounts, a regular presence in the local basketball scene. His sudden and senseless death has left loved ones devastated and the community struggling to make sense of yet another act of gun violence.
Friends and family have begun sharing memories of Jalyn on social media, describing him as kind-hearted, passionate about sports, and someone who always brought positive energy into the room. His presence, especially among those who knew him at the recreation center, will be deeply missed.
Ongoing Investigation and Plea for Public Assistance
As detectives continue their work, Fayetteville Police are asking anyone with information—no matter how small—to step forward. Any witnesses or individuals with knowledge of the altercation, the suspect’s identity, or any related details are encouraged to contact:
📞 Detective C. Pleze at (910) 676-2596
Community cooperation is vital in helping the investigation move forward and ensuring justice is served for Jalyn and his grieving family.
A Call for Peace in Our Public Spaces
The tragic events at College Lakes Rec Center have also reignited conversations about safety in public gathering spaces, especially places designed for youth and community enrichment. The open gym program was intended to offer a safe, supportive environment for recreation and connection. That this setting became the site of a fatal shooting is not only heartbreaking—it is a call to action.
City leaders and local organizations are now urging for renewed efforts toward community safety, conflict resolution resources, and increased youth support programs, with hopes of preventing such tragedies in the future.
“Jalyn Thornton should be alive today. A moment of violence stole a life full of promise. As we mourn, we also must commit ourselves to justice, healing, and the work of making our communities safer for everyone.”
Rest in peace, Jalyn. You are gone far too soon, but you will not be forgotten.