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Neighbors shaken after couple found shot, killed in Claremont home

By Dave Faherty, wsoctv.com and Brittney Johnson, wsoctv.com
By Dave Faherty, wsoctv.com and Brittney Johnson, wsoctv.com

CATAWBA COUNTY, N.C. — Deputies are trying to figure out who killed a couple inside their Claremont home.

Family members told Channel 9 the couple had a 10-year-old daughter, but that she was not home when her parents’ bodies were discovered.

Crime scene tape surrounded the property Tuesday as authorities looked for clues inside and outside the home on Rest Home Drive. Officials removed bags of evidence from the home and searched the couple's minivan.

Investigators told Channel 9 early Tuesday morning that they believe the couple was murdered.

"It's just heartbreaking to think his 10-year-old daughter is going to grow up the rest of her life without her father or mother," victim's cousin Damion Lineberger said.

They said a family member discovered the victims inside the home Monday after not hearing from them over the weekend. Authorities said someone forced their way into the home and killed the couple.

Family members told Channel 9 that Deidra Ramseur and Mark Wilson were shot and killed.

Relatives had a message for the killer.

"It's crazy because you took two lives whoever you are,” said Barbara Lobbom, a cousin of one of the victims. “You took two lives. These two lives had a 10-year-old daughter who now has both parents gone."

Investigators said they found a cellphone Tuesday morning in the grass near the home.

Deputies also focused part of their investigation on the front door, which they said appeared to have been forced open before the killings. Officials said the believe the deaths happened over the weekend.

Wilson’s brother told Channel 9 that he had a good job and no enemies, and is dumbfounded by the crime.

Neighbors were shaken by what happened at the home.

"I carry my pistol with me all the time to protect me and my family and also have one at home," Lineberger said. "For anybody else, I suggest you go and get one."

Channel 9 is working to get more information about the victims and the next steps in the investigation.

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