A 75-year-old North Carolina man accused of fatally shooting a father of three during a road rage encounter has been denied bond, despite claiming strong community ties.
The October 2024 incident, which occurred in front of the victim’s young daughters, continues to draw intense public and legal scrutiny.
What Happened
Terrell Eugene Giddens is accused of killing 40-year-old Jeffrey Michael Guida during a road rage dispute in Catawba County, North Carolina.
Both men reportedly exited their vehicles before the fatal shooting. Witnesses say Giddens continued firing even after Guida was down, in what prosecutors described as a deliberate act of violence.
Key Details
- Date of Incident: October 2024
- Location: Catawba County, North Carolina
- Victim: Jeffrey Michael Guida, 40
- Suspect: Terrell Eugene Giddens, 75
- Charges:
- First-degree murder
- Three counts of attempted first-degree murder
Guida’s three daughters—ages 2, 11, and 13—were inside his Jeep Wagoneer when the shooting occurred. Police say Giddens fired additional rounds into the vehicle after killing Guida, though none of the children were injured.
Reactions or Statements
During the bond hearing, Judge Donald Cureton swiftly denied Giddens’ request for release, citing the severity of the crime.
“I believe this is one of the clearest examples of the danger of a defendant potentially to others that I have ever seen,” Cureton stated.
Giddens’ attorney had requested a $350,000 bond, arguing that Giddens had “significant ties to the community” and planned to reside with his girlfriend in a different county.
However, prosecutors opposed any bond, characterizing the act as calculated and malicious.
“It was more of an execution,” said Catawba County Chief Assistant District Attorney Tim Gould. “Cold-blooded, calculated, and malicious. He wasn’t afraid of Jeff Guida. He decided to kill him because he was angry.”
Investigation or What’s Next
Giddens remains in custody without bond as the case progresses.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and preparing for a full trial.
Further court proceedings are expected to focus on witness testimony, forensic evidence, and the psychological evaluation of the suspect.
FAQs
Who is the victim in this case?
Jeffrey Michael Guida, a 40-year-old father of three, was the victim of the October 2024 shooting.
Were the children injured during the incident?
No. Guida’s three daughters were in the vehicle during the shooting but were not physically harmed.
What charges does Giddens face?
Giddens is charged with first-degree murder and three counts of attempted first-degree murder.
Why was bond denied?
The judge cited the violent nature of the crime and the threat posed to the public as reasons for denying bond.
What’s the next step in the legal process?
The case is moving toward trial, with further hearings expected in the coming months.
Summary / Final Takeaway
A tragic road rage shooting in North Carolina has led to the arrest and continued detention of 75-year-old Terrell Giddens, who allegedly killed a father in front of his daughters.
Despite citing “community ties,” his bond request was denied amid strong opposition from prosecutors who described the act as premeditated and dangerous. The community now awaits justice as the legal process unfolds.