News Summary

Three years after the Hedingham mass shooting, Raleigh community members gathered to honor Officer Gabriel Torres, who was tragically killed during the incident. The remembrance ceremony highlighted the continuing impact of the tragedy on the community and law enforcement during this somber occasion. The event served as a reminder of the lives lost and the importance of reflecting on the fragility of life and ongoing efforts to prevent such events.

Raleigh, NC – Commemoration Marks Third Anniversary of Hedingham Mass Shooting

Three years after the tragic Hedingham mass shooting, the Raleigh community and law enforcement officials gathered to honor the memory of Officer Gabriel Torres, who was fatally shot while preparing to go to work in the neighborhood. The remembrance ceremony took place at the City of Raleigh’s Law Enforcement Training Center, with the presence of dozens of Raleigh Police Department (RPD) members and community officials. The event highlighted the ongoing impact of the incident and paid tribute to the fallen officer.

The Incident and Its Aftermath

The shooting occurred on October 13, 2022, in the Hedingham neighborhood of Raleigh, North Carolina. Officer Gabriel Torres was shot and killed, marking one of the most somber moments in the city’s recent history. The attacker was identified as Austin Thompson, a 15-year-old resident of nearby houses at the time. According to reports, Thompson first killed his 16-year-old brother, James Thompson, inside their home before opening fire in the neighborhood, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.

In addition to Officer Torres, two other individuals were injured during the incident, including RPD Officer Casey Clark. The victims who lost their lives are identified as Susan Karnatz, aged 49; Nicole Conners, aged 52; and Mary Marshall, aged 34. Witness accounts indicated that the teen shot his brother before targeting others in the neighborhood, causing widespread devastation and grief.

Community and Police Responses

The memorial event included a wreath-laying ceremony led by Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce. Many department members and community supporters attended to honor Officer Torres and reflect on the tragedy. Raleigh Police Major Brian Harrison addressed the emotional toll of the event, noting that for many, the memory still feels fresh, as if it occurred yesterday. The ceremony also served as a reminder of the importance of remembering those lost and recognizing life’s fragility.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Austin Thompson has been charged with multiple serious crimes, including five counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and one count of assault with a firearm on a law enforcement officer. He is currently awaiting trial, which is scheduled for February 2, 2026. Thompson’s legal team plans to introduce his medication prescriptions as part of their defense strategy.

Thompson, who was 15 years old at the time of the shootings, faces severe charges but will not face the death penalty due to federal laws prohibiting such penalties for minors at the time of their crimes. His trial has been delayed by a judge, with a new date set for late winter 2026.

Additional Details and Investigation Findings

Following the shootings, investigators found Thompson hiding in a shed nearly six miles from his home. He had sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head at the time of his arrest. Authorities also uncovered a significant cache of weapons and cash in the shed where Thompson had taken refuge. The teenager’s father, Alan Thompson, pled guilty to storing a firearm in a manner accessible to a minor, adding another dimension to the ongoing case.

Community Reflection and Legacy

The incident remains one of the most devastating shootings in Raleigh’s history, leaving lasting scars within the community. Officer Gabriel Torres, remembered for his humor and dedication, was honored by colleagues and community members alike. The third anniversary serves as a somber reminder of the tragedy’s human toll and the importance of ongoing efforts to prevent such incidents in the future.

Summary of Key Facts

• Three years have passed since the Hedingham mass shooting in Raleigh, NC, on October 13, 2022.
• Raleigh Police officer Gabriel Torres was shot and killed while preparing to go to work.
• The shooting took place in the Hedingham neighborhood of Raleigh.
• The alleged assailant, Austin Thompson, was 15 years old at the time and lived nearby.
• Thompson is charged with five counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and one count of assault with a firearm on a law enforcement officer.
• Thompson’s trial is scheduled for February 2, 2026, but has been delayed.
• Thompson is believed to have killed his brother and four other individuals in the neighborhood.
• He was found hiding in a shed six miles from his home with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
• The incident resulted in additional injuries to two other people, including RPD Officer Casey Clark.
• The case has garnered significant attention as one of Raleigh’s worst shootings in recent history.

The memorial and ongoing legal proceedings continue to serve as stark reminders of the tragic events that unfolded three years ago, prompting reflection and renewed commitment to community safety and justice.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Raleigh Investigates Recent Shooting and Upcoming Trial

Additional Resources

• ABC11 News
• WRAL News
• News & Observer
• Google Search: Hedingham mass shooting
• Wikipedia: Mass shooting

Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER

RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.