07/25/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2026
Homicide Investigation Update
On June 15, 2026, around 08:04 pm, the Belhaven Police Department received a report of gunshots in the 900 block of Elm Street in Belhaven.
Officers responded and located 55-year-old, Lemonte Crandell of Elm Street deceased. Officers immediately secured the scene with assistance from responding Deputies with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.
The Belhaven Police Department requested assistance from the NC SBI and began an investigation.
As a result, the Belhaven Police Department obtained a warrant charging 32-year-old Dashauntis Tyrel Chase, of Old County Road in Belhaven with one count of murder.
During the investigation, Detectives learned 18-year-old Mary Evett of Gum Street in Belhaven is a known associate of Dashauntis.
On July 9, 2026, a missing person’s report for Mary Evett was filed when family members reported the last time anyone spoke with Mary was on June 18, 2026.
On July 24,2026, Dashauntis Tyrel Chase turned himself in at the Pitt County Sheriff’s Office. Dashauntis is being held in the Beaufort County Detention Center without bond.
Officers are still trying to locate Mary.