Peyton Patterson Obituary: 19-Year-Old Killed in Winston-Salem State Homecoming Shooting

The Winston-Salem, North Carolina, community is mourning the death of 19-year-old Peyton Patterson, who was fatally shot during Winston-Salem State University’s homecoming weekend on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

The shooting occurred on the university campus and left another person injured. The incident prompted a police investigation and led to the arrest of a 20-year-old man, Ziyaire Spinks, who faces murder and additional criminal charges.

Patterson’s death has brought sadness to those affected by the violence, while developments in the investigation have drawn attention to the events leading up to the fatal confrontation.

Peyton Patterson’s Fatal WSSU Homecoming Shooting: What Happened?

According to Winston-Salem police, officers assigned to homecoming security heard gunshots at approximately 9:45 p.m. on Saturday, November 7.

They responded to the area and found Peyton Patterson suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers and emergency personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but Patterson died at the scene.

A 22-year-old woman, identified in local reporting as Alyssa Ellerbee, was also shot during the incident. She was transported to a hospital for treatment and later released.

The shooting occurred during a confrontation involving two groups of people on the university campus.

What Prosecutors Said About the Events Leading to the Shooting

During court proceedings on November 9, investigators described the events leading up to the fatal shooting based on witness accounts.

According to testimony reported by local media, three men approached a group of women behind Gleason-Hairston Terrace Hall after the homecoming football game and asked for their social media or Instagram handles.

When the women declined, one of the men allegedly insulted and pushed a woman. Her brother reportedly intervened, leading to a physical confrontation.

Investigators alleged that gunfire erupted during the fight and that Spinks fired the shots that killed Patterson and injured Ellerbee.

These details form part of the allegations presented during the legal proceedings. The investigation and judicial process remain ongoing.

Ziyaire Spinks Arrested and Charged With Murder

Winston-Salem police arrested 20-year-old Ziyaire Spinks in connection with the fatal shooting.

According to police and court reporting, he faces several charges, including:

• Murder.
• Assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill or inflict serious injury.
• Felony possession of a firearm on educational property.

Spinks appeared in court on November 9 and was ordered held without bond.

A second individual, Cequan Brower, also appeared in court in connection with the confrontation. Local reporting said Brower faced a misdemeanor affray charge.

Spinks and Brower were reported not to be students at Winston-Salem State University.

The charges against the defendants remain allegations, and the accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in court.

Peyton Patterson’s Personal Details

Winston-Salem State University Responds to Homecoming Tragedy

The shooting was one of two separate gunfire incidents reported on the Winston-Salem State University campus during homecoming weekend.

Less than an hour after the fatal shooting, officers responded to another incident near Victory Circle and Cromartie Street. Two additional people were injured in that separate shooting.

Authorities were investigating whether the two incidents were connected. The university cancelled the remaining homecoming activities and made counselling services available to students and others affected by the violence.

Chancellor Bonita J. Brown described the incidents as senseless violence and reassured the university community that additional law enforcement personnel would remain on campus.

Family, Friends and Community Mourn Peyton Patterson

Peyton Patterson was only 19 years old when his life was tragically cut short.

His death has become a source of sadness for people affected by the homecoming shooting and the wider Winston-Salem community.

The supplied tribute describes him as someone whose kindness and supportive nature were appreciated by those around him. However, further personal information about his upbringing, family, education, and ambitions has not been provided.

His loved ones deserve privacy and compassion as they navigate the loss.

Peyton Patterson’s Cause of Death

According to police reports, Peyton Patterson died after sustaining a gunshot wound during the November 7 shooting at Winston-Salem State University.

Officers and emergency personnel attempted to save his life at the scene, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

The fatal shooting remains the subject of an ongoing criminal investigation.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

No confirmed information has been provided about Peyton Patterson’s funeral, visitation, memorial service, or burial arrangements.

Details of the obituary, memorial and funeral will be announced by the family.

A Tribute to Peyton Patterson

The death of Peyton Patterson has left a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of gun violence.

At just 19, he had much of his life ahead of him. His reported death has brought sorrow to those affected by the shooting and renewed attention to the importance of safety during public and university celebrations.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Patterson family, friends, and everyone grieving his loss.

May Peyton Patterson be remembered with dignity, compassion, and respect.

Information Disclaimer: This article is based on police reporting, court coverage, and the information supplied. Criminal allegations are not findings of guilt. The investigation and court proceedings remain ongoing. Personal details, including Patterson’s date of birth, family background, and funeral arrangements, have not been confirmed.

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