Police searching for suspect
By Gary Popp
Published in News on March 1, 2011 1:46 PM
Derrick Best
Goldsboro police are continuing their efforts to locate Derrick Raymont Best, the man suspected in the shooting that killed 3-year-old Princess Shelby King.
Sgt. Dwayne Dean said help from community residents will be crucial to finding the suspect.
"We are going to need citizen help. There is no doubt about that," Dean said today.
Princess was shot while playing with other children in a playground in the 1800 block of Day Circle about 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Several adults were in the immediate area when the shooting occurred.
Best is believed to be the man who fired multiple shots from a "long gun" during an altercation with another man, according to police reports.
Investigators said the shooting took place only 20-30 yards from where children were playing. The accused shooter left the scene in a tan or champagne-colored Ford Explorer, they said.
Best said finding Best remains the department's top priority.
"We are still fielding calls from citizens who are providing possible locations. We are also working with the SBI," Dean said. "There are still several officers who are working this case actively."
Dean said the recent exposure through the media showing the photos of Best was helpful. He said that at least one phone call was received by someone who recognized Best's photo.
"Once he gets to a comfortable place and starts to reach out to people, we are hoping those people will contact us," Dean said.
Police are asking anyone with information to contact Investigator C.A. Melvin at 919-580-4212 or Crime Stoppers at 919-735-2255. People calling Crime Stoppers can give information while remaining anonymous.