Wilmington woman pleads guilty to second-degree murder in 2023 fatal shooting

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Annie Bradford, 58, of Wilmington, pleaded guilty in New Hanover County Superior Court to second-degree murder for the April 30, 2023, shooting death of 51-year-old Rufus Singletary.

The District Attorney’s Office said Bradford and Singletary had been in a dating relationship for several years, and she frequently stayed at his home on North 26th Street in Wilmington.

Officials said on the morning of April 30, Bradford called 911 and reported that she had shot Singletary.

Responding officers attempted to provide medical aid, but Singletary died from a gunshot wound to his back.

Investigators recovered a Smith & Wesson 9 mm revolver at the scene and arrested Bradford.

After her arrest, she invoked her right to an attorney and did not provide additional statements to law enforcement about the shooting.

Senior Resident Superior Court Judge R. Kent Harrell sentenced Bradford to between approximately 12 to 15.5 years in the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction.