On Monday evening, February 9, 2026, Joey was driving home from work along Timber Drive near Vandora Springs Road in Garner, North Carolina, when tragedy struck. Around 7:15 p.m., police responded to reports of a man found slumped inside a vehicle.
After officers found Joey with a gunshot wound, he was sent to WakeMed Hospital for emergency care. When his wife contacted him since he wasn’t home on time, a nurse answered and advised her to go to the hospital.
Despite medical efforts, Joey died from his injuries the following day. His death left his family and community in shock, as friends and neighbors struggled to understand how a routine drive home could end in such senseless violence. Police have been reviewing surveillance footage and gathering tips, urging anyone who traveled on Timber Drive around the time of the shooting to share dash‑camera video or information that could help identify the person responsible.
Joseph Michael Adams, known as Joey to those who loved him, was a man whose life revolved around his family and the people he cared for. He was described as a devoted husband and a father of five whose presence was steady, warm, and unwavering. His family said his love was not quiet but constant, and that he showed up every day in every way that mattered.
Joey worked as a Hydrovac Operator with Badger Daylighting, where he was known as a committed and reliable employee. His colleagues considered him part of their “Badger Family,” and he took pride in the work he did. Outside of his job, he found joy in collecting baseball cards and old coins, a hobby that made even the smallest handful of change feel like a treasure hunt.
The Garner community has rallied around Joey’s family, sharing memories of his kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. Friends described him as the kind of man who made others feel seen and supported, someone whose presence brought comfort and stability. His sudden loss has left a deep void, especially for his wife and children, who now face a future forever changed.
As investigators continue to search for answers, Joey’s family holds tightly to the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of love, devotion, and quiet strength. His story has touched many across Garner and beyond, reminding the community of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the people who matter most.