The Robeson County community is mourning the tragic loss of Marie Locklear, 74, of Red Springs, whose life was taken in a senseless act of violence that unfolded during a shocking series of events now under active investigation by the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.
According to authorities, the incident began on Saturday, December 13, 2025, when Robeson County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) was dispatched to Chavis Road in Maxton in response to a reported medical emergency. The individual receiving care was identified as Cheyenne D. Woods, 36, of Red Springs.
While being transported to the hospital, officials say Woods brandished a firearm at two EMS workers, placing their lives in immediate danger before fleeing in the EMS ambulance. The brazen act not only endangered emergency personnel but also set in motion a chain of events that would end in tragedy.
After stealing the ambulance, Woods was involved in a collision with another vehicle. Investigators say that following the crash, Woods exited the EMS vehicle, approached the other car, and opened fire, striking Marie Locklear, an elderly woman who authorities say had no connection to the earlier events.
Locklear was rushed for emergency medical treatment, but despite all efforts, she succumbed to her injuries. Her death has left family members, friends, and the wider community grieving the loss of a beloved woman whose life was cut short without warning or provocation.
Woods was arrested in the immediate area following the shooting. He now faces a long list of serious charges, including first-degree murder, eight counts of discharging a weapon into occupied property, robbery with a dangerous weapon, two counts of assault on emergency personnel, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a stolen firearm. Woods is currently being held in the Robeson County Detention Center without bond.
Sheriff Burnis Wilkins condemned the violence in strong terms, calling the incident “yet another senseless act of murder committed by a repeat violent felon whose criminal history includes a prior murder conviction.”
“The facts of this case are deeply disturbing,” Wilkins said. “The suspect was armed, requested medical assistance, stole an ambulance, crashed it, and then opened fire on an innocent elderly woman without provocation. This individual has demonstrated time and again a complete disregard for human life and the rule of law.”
Wilkins also emphasized the broader implications of the tragedy, noting that failures to keep known violent offenders incarcerated place innocent citizens at risk. “This tragedy is a painful reminder of the consequences when accountability is lost,” he said.
As the investigation continues, officials extended their condolences to those affected. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim, her family, and the EMS personnel who were traumatized during this call for service,” Wilkins added.
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office Homicide and Criminal Investigations Divisions are leading the ongoing investigation, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Authorities urge anyone with information related to this case to contact the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-671-3100.
As loved ones remember Marie Locklear, the community honors her life while grappling with the heartbreak of a tragedy that should never have happened. Her memory now stands as a solemn reminder of the importance of justice, accountability, and protecting the innocent.
