Man arrested for murder of Duplin woman

Tyrek Dasha Melvin of Newton Grove, N.C., was arrested on Jan. 28 by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and charged in connection with the death of Latonya Tiska Corbett.

Authorities reported that on Oct. 19, 2024, at 8:41 p.m., Duplin County Communications received several calls regarding a shooting on Shine Road near Faison. The Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and Duplin County Emergency Medical Services were dispatched to the location and upon arrival discovered two individuals had been shot.

Investigators identified the victims as Russell Hines and Latonya Tiska Corbett. Authorities reported Hines sustained non-life-threatening injuries, while Latonya Tiska Corbett succumbed to her injuries. As a result, evidence was collected, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant for Melvin. He was charged with an open count of murder and possession of a firearm. He has been placed in the Duplin County Jail without bond.