At approximately 6:00 PM yesterday evening, UCSO deputies and criminal investigators responded to a residence in the 3200 block of Collins Rd. in Waxhaw, NC after being dispatched to an armed subject/domestic disturbance call for service. Deputies arrived shortly after the call was dispatched and found 38-year-old Erica Thomas in the driveway of the home deceased from apparent gunshot wounds. UCSO deputies also found 41-yearold Joshua D. Laney in the driveway still alive, but badly injured, from a single gunshot wound. UCSO deputies secured the scene and administered lifesaving efforts to Laney who was ultimately transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

UCSO investigators have learned through their initial investigation that Laney and Thomas are former husband and wife. Investigators have determined that this incident began as a verbal domestic disturbance at the Collins Rd. residence between Thomas and Laney. During the confrontation, Laney presented a rifle, shot and killed Thomas, and then shot himself. At the time this incident occurred, an active Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) was in place against Laney and all known firearms belonging to him and in his possession had been seized by the UCSO in accordance with the DVPO. UCSO investigators are still working diligently to determine the source of the weapon used during this incident and any motives for this tragic murder/suicide. Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is encouraged to call the UCSO at (704)283-3789.

Point of contact for this press release is Lt. James Maye, (704)506-6843