This weekend was supposed to be a joyous event for two North Carolina families behind united by marriage. However, in the hours following the wedding ceremony, both families were met with news that brought this new beginning to a tragic end.
Roxboro resident 37-year-old Tyrek Burton had been with the love of his life, Kiara Holloway, for 16 years, a family member told WRAL News. The two finally made things official on Oct. 12 in a beautiful wedding ceremony. Images of the event posted to social media by family members displayed the two the day they met each other at the alter.
Holloway donned a backless, lace mermaid dress with a lengthy veil while Burton wore a white, lace tuxedo jacket in coordination. Smoke covered the dancefloor and sparklers went off as the two had their dance together, photos show.
The seemingly perfect night of celebration, however, was cut short after a chilling report from local law enforcement. Greensboro police said hours after the wedding reception, Burton was found dead in the parking lot of the Barber Park Events Center, per WRAL.
Recordings from Broadcastify captured radio traffic between dispatchers and first responders whose communication suggested Burton was shot up to 15 times, the report says. The tragedy left both sides of the family struck with grief as the Holloways looked forward to welcoming Burton into their clan. In fact, he was already a part of it.
“He stepped up to be a father figure in my two oldest nieces’ lives because their dad wasn’t involved. He moved them away from Roxboro, secured a stable job and was building a future with my sister,” said Nysheria, Holloway’s sister, to WRAL.
There is no information at the moment about who was behind the shooting or what the motive could have been. A GoFundMe was created by Burton’s cousin to raise funeral costs.
“He was a beloved husband, father of four beautiful girls, brother and friend, known for his generosity, and infectious smile,” read the donation post. “Unexpected losses can cause immense stress and pressure on families. Your donation will help cover expenses and provide support for Tyrek’s family during this difficult time. Please help us ensure that his family receives the care they need.”