Suspect Arrested in Deadly Durham Trail Stabbing

LaRue Barbee charged with first-degree murder in the death of Chesleigh Eloyd Lyons on the American Tobacco Trail.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:04pm

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Police have arrested 46-year-old LaRue Barbee of Durham in connection with the March 9 stabbing death of 51-year-old Chesleigh Eloyd Lyons on the American Tobacco Trail in Durham, North Carolina. Barbee was taken into custody on Tuesday and charged with first-degree murder, as well as several misdemeanor offenses.

Why it matters

The American Tobacco Trail is a popular recreational area in Durham, and this incident has raised concerns about public safety on the trail. The arrest of a suspect provides some closure for the community, but also highlights the need for increased security measures and awareness to prevent similar violent crimes in the future.

The details

According to police, the stabbing occurred around 4:10 p.m. on March 9 near the intersection of Fayetteville and Pilot Streets on the American Tobacco Trail. Lyons, a 51-year-old Durham resident, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have stated that the incident was not believed to be a random act of violence.

  • The stabbing occurred around 4:10 p.m. on March 9, 2026.
  • Police identified LaRue Barbee as the suspect on March 25, 2026.
  • Barbee was arrested and charged on March 29, 2026.

The players

Chesleigh Eloyd Lyons

A 51-year-old Durham resident who was fatally stabbed on the American Tobacco Trail.

LaRue Barbee

A 46-year-old Durham resident who was arrested and charged with first-degree murder in Lyons' death, as well as several misdemeanor offenses.

Durham Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the stabbing incident and made the arrest.

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What they’re saying

“The American Tobacco Trail is a popular recreational area in Durham, and this incident has raised concerns about public safety on the trail.”

— Durham Resident

What’s next

Barbee is scheduled to appear in Durham County court on Thursday morning for a hearing on the first-degree murder charge. Authorities will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stabbing.

The takeaway

This tragic incident on the American Tobacco Trail highlights the need for increased security measures and community awareness to ensure the safety of all trail users. The arrest of a suspect provides some closure, but also serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and proactive steps to prevent similar violent crimes in the future.