The Southern Pines Police Department responded to a report of a deceased female in a vehicle Sunday evening at 7:45 pm. The car was located on a dirt road off of South Gaines Street in Southern Pines, according to a news release from the police department.
The victim, who was pregnant, has been identified as Aiyonna Clarice Barrett, 18, with a last known address in Sanford. No arrests have been made yet.
Detectives working the case believe this was not a random act of violence. The victims body was taken to the State Medical Examiner for an autopsy for cause of death, according to the news release.
“The Southern Pines Police Department has the responsibility to the public and the deceased to ensure that this investigation is neither tainted nor jeopardized; therefore, no additional information will be released at this time,” said Chief Robert Temme. “The public information function of the Southern Pines Police Department remains steadfast in providing accurate and timely information to the community which is often sensitive in nature. Additional information will follow at the appropriate time in this investigation.”
The department is seeking additional information from the community and is asking anyone who has information to call 910-692-7031 or the Crime Tip Line at 910-693-4110. Information can be left anonymously.
