It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tahlik Deloatch, a young man from the Bertie County community, who tragically died on Saturday, January 3, 2026. At just 27 years old, his life was cut short in a violent incident that has shaken the county and left his family and friends devastated. His death is being investigated as a homicide, underscoring the gravity of the tragedy.
According to the Bertie County Sheriff’s Office, first responders were dispatched at approximately 3:07 p.m. to what was initially reported as a vehicle accident on Harrell Siding Road near Highway 11. Upon arrival, EMS and fire personnel discovered Deloatch unresponsive inside his vehicle. It quickly became clear that this was not a routine accident—he had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts by emergency crews, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) has joined local authorities in handling the case. Investigators closed Harrell Siding Road to conduct a thorough examination of the scene, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Officials have appealed to the public for assistance, asking anyone who traveled through Harrell Siding Road between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. and noticed vehicles parked along the roadway to contact the sheriff’s office. Calls can remain anonymous, reflecting the urgency of gathering information to solve the case.
The discovery of Deloatch’s body has left the community reeling. Friends and neighbors describe him as a young man full of promise, whose presence brought warmth and connection to those around him. His sudden death has created an indescribable void, leaving loved ones struggling to comprehend how such violence could claim someone so young.
As the investigation continues, the tragedy has sparked broader conversations about safety and violence in Bertie County. Law enforcement officials have emphasized their commitment to finding answers and bringing justice to Deloatch’s family. The community, meanwhile, has rallied together in grief, offering support to his loved ones and honoring his memory.
For those who knew him, Tahlik Deloatch will be remembered not for the way his life ended, but for the kindness, potential, and love he shared during his 27 years. His passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.