THIRD SUSPECT ARRESTED IN JANUARY CHADBOURN JUVENILE HOMICIDE

Columbus County — A months‑long investigation into the January shooting death of sixteen‑year‑old Autumn Spivey has resulted in the arrest of a third suspect, according to a release from the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to Old Stake Road in Chadbourn on January 22, 2026, for a shots‑fired call. Investigators found Spivey inside a bedroom suffering from a gunshot wound and immediately began first aid. She later died from her injuries.

The investigation continued for more than six months, with detectives developing leads, reviewing evidence, and conducting follow‑up interviews until multiple suspects were identified.

Arrest Warrants Issued – August 6, 2026

Investigators secured warrants for three individuals:

• Tony Larrell Mason, 20, of Lumberton
• Armani Darrell Mason, 27, of Bladenboro
• Kalup Donsha Cialeek Frink, 19, of Chadbourn

All three face the same charges:

• Murder
• Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling
• No bond issued

Arrests Across Three Counties

Tony Mason

• Arrested August 6 in Robeson County
• Charged with Murder and Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling
• No bond

Armani Mason

• Arrested August 7 in Bladen County
• Charged with Murder and Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling
• No bond

Kalup Frink

• Arrested August 11 in Columbus County
• Charged with Murder and Discharging a Firearm into an Occupied Dwelling
• No bond

Frink’s arrest marks the third and final suspect taken into custody in connection with Spivey’s death.

Sheriff Rogers’ Statement

Sheriff W.A. Rogers offered condolences to Spivey’s family, saying:

“A young life was taken far too soon, and no family should ever have to experience the pain of losing a child in such a senseless manner.”

He also thanked CCSO Patrol Deputies, Criminal Investigators, the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina SBI Coastal District for their assistance throughout the investigation.

Any individuals listed are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Charges and case statuses may change as investigations and court proceedings continue.