N.C. Mom Sees Young Son on News as a Murder Suspect, Drives Him to Police Station the Next Day

When her son came home with a deep cut on his hand one day, a concerned mother took him straight to the hospital. The next day, she was taken aback and rendered speechless after seeing a developing news story reportedly involving her son.

Parents love their children unconditionally and irrevocably. Their entire world centers around their kids, and they would do anything to provide them with a supportive and loving environment. Parenthood is an extraordinary journey, but it can also be incredibly challenging.

Sometimes, a parent might find themselves at a crossroads where they have to make tough and life-altering decisions about their children, many of which can take a toll on them. The mother in today's story found herself in a similar situation. Take a look at the complete details.

A Parent's Nightmare

One day in August 2022, a young man came home, and his condition immediately concerned his mother. Charles Michael Haywood's mom hurried her son to the hospital when he allegedly got back with a deep cut on his hand.

One parent shared a similar dilemma online and asked people for their opinion on whether it was fitting to cut ties with their son.

But the very next day, things took a surprisingly odd turn, one that the woman didn't see coming. Haywood's mom was extremely shocked and left at a severe loss for words when she switched on her television and saw a news story.

A Painful Decision

The North Carolina woman had never expected the news to be related to her young son. She was said to have taken her son to the police station after seeing him on the TV as a murder suspect in connection with the death of a woman in Surf City.

It all began on the evening of August 24, when Haywood went into Exotic Hemp Company. Per the Surf City Police, he had a bandana around his neck, was carrying a bag, and appeared to be reading a pamphlet in the CCTV footage.

The Surf City Police Force also shared a Facebook post on August 25, requesting people to help find a suspect involved in a murder investigation. According to a statement from the police, Haywood was arrested on charges of first-degree murder and armed robbery.

The Heart-Rending Details

The young man was reportedly involved in the death of a temp store employee, identified by the cops as Margaret Bracey, 42. After the incident, Haywood was said to have left his sweatpants and bandana in the store, after which he took off.

Before disappearing, he allegedly put the stolen items, including money and merchandise, into his bag. According to the search warrants, Haywood's hand was injured during the incident. The 22-year-old suspect appeared in court on August 25 and will return for another hearing on September 14.

According to the police, Haywood is being held without bond at the Pender County Detention Center. Regarding the harrowing incident, District Attorney Ben David said:

"Anytime something happens in open daylight, in a well-lit, crowded area, it gets everyone to pause and say how concerned they are. This case is a priority for a different reason, and that is because someone has lost their life."

Netizens React

The gut-wrenching story garnered the attention of several netizens online, and many left words of encouragement and support for the distraught mother:

"She did the right thing!"

— (@megan316) September 8, 2022

"This Mom is my hero as much as we love our kids you have to do the right thing (sic)."

— (@melissawc) September 8, 2022

"How incredibly strong she must be. I can’t imagine her pain. My condolences to the deceaseds family and friends (sic)."

— (@darlene.d.louie) September 8, 2022

"Definitely one of the hardest things a mom could ever do."

— (@linda.w.smith.3150) September 8, 2022

A Parent's Dilemma

Indeed, what Haywood's mother did was painful, particularly for a parent whose sole job is to protect and cherish a child. While many netizens rallied in her support, some might have a slightly different opinion.

One parent shared a similar dilemma online and asked people for their opinion on whether it was fitting to cut ties with their son. A user responded to the parent's query and recalled how their mom and dad cut off all communication and contact with them, calling it the "best lesson ever."

They further explained how their parents' behavior helped them evolve into a better and more responsible person with a family life and an excellent job.

We hope no mother has to face such a difficult choice in their life. Our hearts go out to the deceased store employee and her loved ones. Please keep her in your heartfelt prayers.