Forsyth County deputies say the first homicide of 2026 has been ruled a justifiable act of self defense after a late night shooting at a home on Hartman Plaza Court. Investigators, working with the district attorney, concluded that the resident’s use of a firearm met the legal standard for self defense, though the incident remains a tragic loss of life.
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WINSTON SALEM, NC (3-minute read) — Forsyth County deputies are investigating the county’s first homicide of 2026, which they say turned out to be a legally justified act of self defense. Around 11 p.m. on Thursday, deputies were sent to a home on Hartman Plaza Court after reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found a man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside the residence.
The man was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Authorities have identified him as 54 year old Floyd Leonard Denney of Winston Salem. In the hours that followed, investigators processed the scene, collected physical evidence and reviewed available technology such as camera footage and digital records. They also interviewed witnesses to understand what led up to the shooting.
Self defense ruling in Forsyth County shooting#
After working with the Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office, investigators determined that the shooting met the legal standard for self defense. In most cases, that means the person who fired the firearm reasonably believed they faced an immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm and used force only to stop that threat. While the legal system may clear the person who acted in self defense, everyone involved still has to live with the emotional and psychological impact of a deadly encounter.
Sheriff Bobby F. Kimbrough Jr. expressed sympathy for everyone affected, calling it a tragic situation for all sides. Even when a shooting is ruled lawful, deputies often remind residents that knowing state laws on self defense and responsible firearm use is critical. Safe storage, de-escalation when possible and a solid understanding of when deadly force is actually allowed can help prevent split second decisions from turning into criminal charges or civil lawsuits.
Investigators are still interested in hearing from anyone who may have additional information about what happened before the shooting. Community members can contact Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800 and may be able to provide tips anonymously. In many cases, witness information helps law enforcement confirm timelines, clarify threats and ensure that self defense rulings are based on a complete picture of events.
Safety Tip: If you keep a firearm for home defense, know your state’s self defense and castle doctrine laws, maintain safe storage, and regularly train so you can make clear, lawful decisions under stress.
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