The Robeson County community is mourning the tragic loss of Marie Locklear, 74, of Red Springs, following a senseless act of violence involving Cheyenne D. Woods, 36, of Red Springs, an incident strongly condemned by Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins, as the Robeson County Sheriff’s Office continues its active investigation into the events that claimed Locklear’s life.
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. Woods was the individual receiving medical care and was being transported by EMS to a hospital when the situation escalated in a shocking and dangerous manner.
While en route, officials say Woods brandished a firearm at two EMS workers, placing their lives in immediate danger. He then fled in the EMS ambulance, turning a routine medical call into a rapidly unfolding public safety crisis. Authorities said the actions traumatized the EMS personnel and endangered countless lives along the roadway.
After stealing the ambulance, Woods was involved in a collision with another vehicle. Investigators reported that following the crash, Woods exited the ambulance, approached the other vehicle, and opened fire, striking Marie Locklear, an elderly woman who authorities say had no involvement whatsoever in the earlier incident.
Locklear was rushed for emergency medical treatment, but despite lifesaving efforts, she succumbed to her injuries. Her death has left her family, friends, and the broader Robeson County community devastated. Those who knew her described her as a beloved member of the community, whose life was taken without warning or provocation.
Woods was arrested in the immediate area following the shooting. He is now facing multiple serious felony 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. Authorities confirmed Woods is being held at the Robeson County Detention Center without bond.
Sheriff Burnis Wilkins issued a strong statement condemning the violence, calling it “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 highlighted the broader implications of the tragedy, emphasizing concerns about public safety and accountability. “Failures to keep known violent offenders incarcerated place innocent citizens at risk,” he said. “This tragedy is a painful reminder of the consequences when accountability is lost.”
As the investigation continues, officials extended heartfelt condolences to all 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 are urging anyone with information related to the 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 the urgent need to protect innocent lives.
