WPD makes an arrest in Sunday’s murder

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington Police said they made an arrest in the Sunday night homicide.

Investigators said Marokus Ballard, 19, was charged in the murder of Hisan Polk, 23. At Polk’s first appearance, Ballard’s case was continued and he was appointed an attorney. Ballard remains in jail under no bond.

Polk was found on the 1500 block of South 15th Street suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was later pronounced dead at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

At a news conference Thursday, both Police Chief Ralph Evangelous and members of Polk’s family spoke about the recent shootings in the area. Evangelous says there have been 9 murders this year and 32 ShotSpotter Activations in the past few months.

“Our kids are being killed out there and because of our deafening silence these individuals continue to live this lifestyle,” Chief Evangelous said.

Polk’s aunt echoed the chief’s concerns about the community remaining silent about crimes.

“This is home. You have to come together as a community and do better. You’ve got to want better. We want our kids to be able to go outside and play and not hear gunshots and run every two seconds. These kids are terrified,” Shanda Sidberry said.

Sidberry added that her nephew was a peacemaker who loved everyone. Polk was checking on his great aunt when he was killed.

“I can’t tell you that our nephew was out in the streets doing bad things. He was out promoting good things.”