The death of 19-year-old Peyton Izaia Patterson has left a North Carolina community grieving after a shooting during homecoming weekend at Winston-Salem State University turned a night of celebration into tragedy.
Patterson was fatally shot on Saturday, November 7, 2026, during an incident on the university campus in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. His death was confirmed by local law enforcement following an emergency response to reports of gunfire.
According to the Winston-Salem Police Department, officers heard gunshots at approximately 9:46 p.m. while providing security during the university’s homecoming celebrations. They responded to the 600 block of South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, where they discovered Patterson suffering from a gunshot wound.
Officers and emergency medical personnel immediately attempted lifesaving measures. Despite their efforts, Patterson died at the scene.
The shooting also injured a 22-year-old woman, Alyssa Janae Ellerbee, who was transported to a local hospital for treatment. She was later released.
What Happened to Peyton Patterson?
Police investigations into the fatal shooting led to the arrest of 20-year-old Ziyaire Antonyo Spinks.
Authorities allege that the shooting followed a confrontation involving two groups of people. Spinks was subsequently charged with murder, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill or inflict serious injury, and felony possession of a firearm on educational property.
Police confirmed that Spinks was not a student at Winston-Salem State University. An 18-year-old man, Cequan Warren Brower, was also charged with affray in connection with the altercation.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the incident.
Peyton Patterson and His North Carolina Community
Patterson’s death has drawn attention to the impact of gun violence on young people and university communities across North Carolina.
Questions surrounding his personal background, hometown, education and family life have also emerged. However, publicly available reporting has not independently established whether he was from Randleman or attended Wingate University.
Winston-Salem State University Chancellor Bonita J. Brown expressed condolences to Patterson’s family and loved ones, acknowledging the pain experienced by the university community.
The university canceled its remaining homecoming activities and made counseling services available to students and staff.
Peyton Patterson Cause of Death
Patterson died from gunshot injuries sustained during the November 7 campus shooting, according to police reports.
His death remains a tragic loss during a weekend intended to celebrate university traditions, friendships and community connections. His family and loved ones are left to mourn a young life cut short.