On Sunday morning, March 22, 2025, Lonneil Mason, a 34-year-old man from Charlotte, was involved in a violent and chaotic series of events that left the Lenoir County community in shock. Mason is in critical but stable condition after allegedly shooting at three Amazon delivery vans and crashing his vehicle into multiple others, causing widespread panic and significant injuries.
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The Chain of Events
The incident began when Mason, driving a 2011 white BMW, was reportedly traveling in the wrong lane on N.C. 11, heading north but driving in the southbound lane. His reckless driving led to several collisions. The first crash involved a vehicle that lost a side mirror. The second collision occurred when Mason’s car struck an SUV head-on, critically injuring two female passengers. The third vehicle hit was a truck hauling mowers, though no injuries were reported from that incident.
Mason himself suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to ECU Health Medical Center for treatment. However, the violence didn’t end with the crash.
Shooting at Amazon Delivery Vans
Before the crash, Mason had already opened fire on three separate Amazon delivery vans. The first incident occurred at 10:15 a.m. on Felix Harvey Parkway, where Mason allegedly shot at two Amazon vans. One bullet struck a van’s passenger door, while another shot from an AR-15 pistol went through the back of the van, damaging packages. The second shooting took place on N.C. 11, where Mason fired at a third Amazon van, hitting the driver’s side. Miraculously, none of the Amazon drivers were injured in these attacks, although the threat was severe.
Law Enforcement Response and Arrest
The Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office, State Highway Patrol, and local police quickly responded to the escalating violence. Emergency services, including Lenoir County EMS and local fire departments, were also involved in handling the aftermath. Once Mason crashed his vehicle, authorities found two firearms in his car—a .45 caliber pistol and an AR-15—along with drugs, including cocaine and fentanyl.
Criminal Charges and Background
Mason has been charged with multiple serious offenses, including three counts of attempted first-degree murder, shooting into an occupied property, possession of a firearm by a felon, and drug-related charges. His criminal history is concerning; he served over a decade in prison after being convicted of second-degree murder and breaking and entering in 2007, only being released in December 2020. This recent violent episode has raised questions about his behavior following his release.
Ongoing Investigation and Victims’ Recovery
Authorities are continuing their investigation into Mason’s motive and actions, while also seeking additional information from the public. Investigators are particularly focused on understanding why Mason targeted the Amazon vans and whether other factors, such as drugs, played a role in the violence.
The two women injured in the head-on crash remain hospitalized in critical condition, and their recovery is a priority in the ongoing investigation.
Community Impact and Unanswered Questions
The community of Lenoir County is still reeling from the violent events. As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to help complete the picture of what led to this dangerous outburst. The residents of Lenoir County are waiting for justice for the victims and answers to the disturbing questions surrounding Mason’s actions that day.
The investigation remains ongoing, with hopes that more details will soon emerge, providing clarity and justice for all those affected.