Community in Mourning: Rennert Grieves the Tragic Loss of Jacob Williamson, 32 Rennert, Robeson County, N.C. – June 2025
Rennert, Robeson County, N.C. – The small, close-knit community of Rennert, North Carolina, is reeling from heartbreak after the tragic and untimely death of Jacob Williamson, a 32-year-old resident whose life was cut short by gun violence over the weekend. In a town of just 275 residents, where everyone knows one another by name, the loss has created a wave of sorrow and disbelief.
Jacob, known for his warm smile, dependable nature, and strong community ties, was fatally shot, sending shockwaves through this rural Robeson County town. The details surrounding the incident remain under investigation, but local authorities have confirmed that the shooting occurred late Saturday night, June 21, shaking this quiet corner of southeastern North Carolina to its core.
A Beloved Member of the Community
Jacob Williamson was not just a familiar face in Rennert — he was an integral part of the town’s rhythm. A lifelong resident, Jacob grew up on the outskirts of town, attended local schools, and worked as a mechanic and handyman, often volunteering his time to help neighbors and elders with repairs or yard work. Whether fixing up a neighbor’s car or grilling at the town’s Fourth of July celebration, Jacob was someone people could count on.
“Jacob wasn’t just part of the community,” said longtime friend and neighbor, Darlene Locklear. “He was the heart of it. If he heard you needed help, he’d show up before you even had to ask.”
His kindness, humility, and easygoing personality made him a friend to people of all ages — from local children who looked up to him as a big brother figure, to elders who trusted and respected him deeply. He was known to many simply as “Jake,” a nickname that evoked affection and trust.
The Tragic Incident
Authorities say the shooting took place Saturday night, though specific details regarding the motive or suspect have not yet been released. The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. As of this writing, no arrests have been announced.
Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene following reports of gunfire in a residential area near Rennert Road. Upon arrival, they discovered Jacob with life-threatening injuries. Despite rapid emergency response and efforts to revive him, Jacob was pronounced dead at the scene.
News of the shooting spread quickly, with stunned residents gathering outside homes in disbelief and sorrow. In a town where violent crime is rare, this incident has left many feeling shaken and vulnerable.
“This kind of thing just doesn’t happen here,” said Mayor Cecil Lowry. “We are devastated. Our thoughts are with Jacob’s family. He will be missed beyond words.”
A Town United in Grief
As the community mourns, flowers and candles have begun to appear near the spot where Jacob was shot. Friends, family, and neighbors have come together in both sorrow and solidarity, offering meals, prayers, and comfort to Jacob’s grieving family.
A vigil is planned for Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. at the Rennert Community Park, where residents will gather to honor Jacob’s memory, share stories, and stand united in the face of tragedy.
Jacob is survived by his mother, Loretta Williamson, his younger brother, Derrick, and a large extended family. His mother, overwhelmed with grief, described her son as “a good man with a big heart — someone who never turned his back on anyone.”
In a statement shared by the family, they expressed their appreciation for the outpouring of love and support:
“Jacob was loved deeply, and we are comforted by the many people who have reached out during this time. He didn’t deserve this, and we ask for privacy and prayers as we try to make sense of this nightmare.”
Searching for Justice, Hoping for Peace
While the investigation continues, residents of Rennert are grappling with the questions that often follow senseless violence: Why did this happen? What could have been done differently? And, most painfully, how do we move forward without someone who meant so much to so many?
The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office has pledged to pursue the case with diligence and care, emphasizing that justice for Jacob is a priority.
“This is a tragedy that affects all of us,” said Sheriff Burnis Wilkins. “Jacob was a son of this community, and we are doing everything in our power to hold those responsible accountable.”
Honoring His Legacy
Jacob Williamson’s legacy will live on in Rennert — in the lives he touched, the kindness he showed, and the community he loved. Plans are underway for a memorial fund in his name, which will support local youth programs and neighborhood improvement efforts, causes that were close to his heart.
In the stillness that now hangs over Rennert, Jacob’s absence is deeply felt — at the diner where he’d grab breakfast, in the garage where he spent hours working on cars, and on the front porches where he once sat laughing with friends.
But even in grief, the community holds onto his memory tightly.
Jacob Williamson may be gone, but his spirit — of generosity, hard work, and unwavering community love — remains the heartbeat of Rennert. And in that, he lives on.
Rest in peace, Jacob. You will never be forgotten.