Two North Carolina men accused of killing a beloved Charlotte sandwich shop owner are now linked to another murder case, authorities say.
Terry Connor Jr. and Steven Staples, believed to be 35 and 37, have been charged with the murder of 61-year-old Scott Brooks, co-owner of Brooks Sandwich House. The details of the case emerged this week as the defendants appeared in court for their trial.
On December 19, 2019, Brooks was arriving at his restaurant when two men wearing hooded sweatshirts confronted him with guns. Surveillance footage shows Brooks talking with the suspects before he pulled out his own weapon and fired. The men returned fire, killing Brooks. Authorities believe the shop, which only handled cash, was specifically targeted.
Connor and Staples are accused of being those two men. Prosecutors also tied them to a separate double murder just weeks later. On January 11, 2020, Siojvon Joseph and Asa Shannon, both 35, were found shot to death in a vehicle down an embankment in Charlotte. Staples and Connor’s brother, Everette Connor, are believed to have committed that crime.
During this week’s court proceedings, prosecutors highlighted the second case to show a pattern of violence involving Staples and the Connor family. Police searches of a nearby home uncovered hidden cellphones, weapons, and other evidence authorities hope will link the men to both murders.
Both Terry Connor and Staples have pleaded not guilty in Brooks’ death. Prosecutors are expected to rest their case next week. The investigation into Joseph and Shannon’s deaths is ongoing.
Brooks is remembered fondly by family and friends. His obituary notes that the customers he met at Brooks Sandwich House, founded by his father in 1973, became lasting friends, leaving a legacy of kindness and community that will be cherished.