Yolanda Burrell: Suspect charged with murder and kidnapping in domestic dispute killing of Newton woman

Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.

CATAWBA COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA: On January 6, a 47-year-old man of 2nd Street Place SW in Hickory allegedly took the life of a 45-year-old woman.

Wilbern Carlos Springs was reportedly apprehended on January 7 in connection to the death of Yolanda Burrell. He is currently facing charges of first-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping. 

According to the police, both individuals were living at a residence on Deal Road, Newton, North Carolina, when Burrell died.

Springs is currently being held without bond, and his court date is scheduled for Monday, January 8, as per Whky

Deputies found a man armed with firearm

Deputies from the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office responded after they received a report of domestic dispute at a residence in the 4000 block of Deal Road on Saturday, January 6. 

Upon arrival, they found an adult male armed with a firearm who retreated back to the residence on seeing the deputies.

After additional deputies were called in, it was established that the man seen in the residence had informed a family member about another person's death inside the house.

STAR team found Yolanda Burrell's body

In response to the updated information, deputies and officers from Catawba County’s Special Tactics and Response (STAR) team swiftly entered the home.

One of the deputies, Major Aaron Turk claimed, “We learned there was a likelihood of a person inside being seriously injured or deceased. Our special tactic and response team made an immediate entry."

Upon entry, deputies confirmed the unfortunate demise of an adult female, Yolanda Burrell inside the residence. 

As per WSOC TV, deputies reported that the suspect brandished a handgun at them before they entered the residence.

The suspect was receiving treatment at a local hospital for injuries sustained prior to the authorities' interaction with him.

The incident is currently under investigation by the Criminal Investigations Division of the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office.