Family members and community members are demanding transparency from authorities regarding the death of Javion Magee, a 21-year-old truck driver from Chicago, who was found dead in Vance County.
Magee was discovered on Wednesday in a rural area off Vanco Mill Road, not far from his truck, with a rope around his neck and leaning against a tree. He was in Henderson to deliver goods to the Walmart distribution center.
Candice Matthews, a representative for the family, described Magee as a loving individual who enjoyed being around others. “He never had any disturbing issues,” she said. “He loved his family and being a truck driver. Everyone is confused right now about what happened.”
The family was informed by the Vance County Sheriff’s office that Magee had died by suicide. However, Sheriff Curtis Brame stated that there were no indications of foul play, although the investigation remains ongoing.
Evidence from a search warrant revealed that Magee was captured on surveillance video purchasing a rope at a local Walmart, which is believed to be the same rope found with his body. He was seen using the self-checkout and wore the same clothes he had on when he was discovered. Shortly after, he was recorded entering the Hampton Inn but left shortly thereafter, with hotel staff indicating they had no rooms available that night. Surveillance footage later showed his truck arriving at Vanco Mill Road and him walking away.
A 911 call placed just after 10 a.m. led deputies to Magee’s body. Activists and community members are echoing calls for transparency, with Rev. William Barber II stating, “What we must first do is find out what happened, and there must be truth and transparency and nothing less.”
Sheriff Brame mentioned that the state attorney general and the State Bureau of Investigation are involved, while the cause of death has yet to be determined. No signs of self-defense have been noted, and the sheriff’s office is awaiting a toxicology report.
As the investigation continues, Magee’s family is anxiously seeking answers. “They deserve accountability and justice,” Matthews emphasized. “This is what we will work towards to ensure the family finds some form of closure.”