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Rowan Co. volunteer firefighter shot in head dies

ROWAN COUNTY, N.C. — The family members of Marco Kauffman decided to take the volunteer firefighter off life support after he was shot in the head more than two weeks ago.

The post on the Praying for Marco Facebook page says, "This morning the test results came back. We are choosing to bless God and let go of our dear Marco, for it seems God is calling him to Himself."

Kauffman, 25, had been in the hospital fighting for his life since he interrupted a burglary at his home in Rowan County.

"Marcus has an eternal life ahead of him that's way better than anything we had to offer here. So, we want him back for our own sakes, but we also realize that Marcus is completely whole now," said Luke Popejoy, a member of Kauffman's church.

The family is asking for continued prayer.

IMAGES: Marco Kauffman

Kauffman's wife is due to deliver their first baby in February.

Kauffman was shot in the head on Dec. 2 after he and his wife were returning home from a Thanksgiving trip when deputies say two men broke into their home.

Khari McCleland, 23, is accused of shooting Kauffman in the head. Deputies eventually arrested four men in the case.

The charges against McClelland and Jaylend Daquan, 19, have been upgraded to first-degree murder, deputies said.

Head over to our Facebook page and leave your condolences for the Kauffman's family.

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Funeral arrangements announced for volunteer firefighter shot, killed

A visitation and funeral for Marco Kauffman will be at the Mac Grey Auditorium, 474 N. Center St., Statesville.

Visitation will be 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday. The funeral will be 1 p.m. Monday.

The body will be available for viewing at noon before the funeral for those who are unable to make it Sunday.

A private burial for family, friends and close acquaintances will be at Cleveland Believers Fellowship.

WSOC

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