GASTONIA, N.C. — A man was charged in connection to the deadly shooting of his girlfriend on Thursday.
Editor's Note: This story discusses domestic violence, which may include descriptions of violent acts. Reader discretion is advised.
Jalen Lavaria Houston, 24, was shot and killed around 7 a.m. on Ransom Street near Davidson Avenue in Gastonia. The Gastonia Police Department said Houston was shot by her boyfriend Phillip Byers Jr.
Byers, 34, was arrested after the shooting and charged with murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. He is being held in Gaston County jail without bond. Byers was out on bond for an assault on a female charge from January, according to court records.
No further details have been released.
If you or a loved one is facing domestic violence, help is readily available. You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. Resources for help are available in both North Carolina and South Carolina.
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