LELAND — The District Attorney’s Office has concluded its investigation into the Jan. 2 shooting death of Dylan Hennessey on Dixie Drive in Leland, determining the homeowner acted in lawful self-defense and will not face criminal charges.
District Attorney Jon David’s office said the decision came after consultation with the Leland Police Department and a review of evidence that included witness statements, photographs, video, and autopsy reports.
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On Jan. 2, at approximately 3:32 a.m., the Brunswick County 911 Center received a call from an occupant of the Dixie Drive residence reporting that a man was “dying” and urging first responders to hurry. Leland police arrived and found Hennessey deceased inside the home; the DA’s office said he was killed by multiple gunshot wounds.
Investigators said Hennessey and Dustin Powers arrived at the residence roughly eight minutes before the shooting. The DA’s office said Hennessey was in an on-again, off-again relationship with a woman who was at the home, and that Hennessey drove to the location with Powers to confront them. The release also states Hennessey had pending domestic violence charges in New Hanover County involving the same woman.
According to the DA’s findings, Hennessey and Powers allegedly attacked the homeowner outside, then dragged him into the residence with the intent to commit an assault. During the confrontation, the homeowner retrieved a firearm and fired five rounds, the DA’s office said. In the struggle, Hennessey was shot and killed, Powers was shot in the wrist, and the homeowner was shot in the foot.
The State Bureau of Investigation processed the scene and collected evidence for analysis, including a set of brass knuckles.
As a result of the investigation, Powers has been charged with breaking and entering with intent to terrorize and first-degree kidnapping. Court records show Powers was not authorized for release on bond at his first court appearance. He will have a probable cause hearing at the Brunswick County Courthouse on Jan. 29.
Citing North Carolina law, the DA’s office said deadly force is justified when a person reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent death or serious bodily harm. The DA’s office concluded that standard was met in this case because the homeowner was attacked and forcibly pulled inside his residence.
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