Indictment in North Carolina Sheriff’s Captain Murder

A sergeant with the North Carolina Highway Patrol has been indicted for the murder of a sheriff’s captain, stemming from a prolonged romantic conflict involving a woman both men were involved with. This incident reportedly took place following years of tension linked to their relationships.

According to authorities, 44-year-old Sgt. Nekime Matu Oxendine shot Cumberland County Sheriff’s Capt. Adam Bean on March 27 outside the woman’s residence in Hope Mills. This confrontation, details suggest, escalated between the two officers.

When police arrived at the scene, they found Tara Lynn Whitman attempting to perform CPR on Bean, who was later declared dead on-site.

Investigators noted that the fatal shooting was preceded by escalating conflicts tied to Whitman’s relationships with both men. Over the years, Oxendine had shown signs of jealousy regarding Whitman’s connection with Bean. The warrant states that Whitman began a relationship with Bean in 2022 after separating from Oxendine, though she later returned to Oxendine.

While she was with Bean, Whitman described Oxendine’s behavior as increasingly troubling, illustrating issues that resembled stalking. He would send messages about her relationship with Bean, expressing his discontent with phrases that conveyed obsession and anger.

In December 2025, Whitman decided to rekindle her relationship with Oxendine, moving back in with him and leaving Bean. But Oxendine’s anxieties about Bean persisted, raising concerns even after their reunion.

On the night of the shooting, Bean had invited Whitman to his home for a discussion. When she didn’t respond to his messages, he threatened to arrive at her location, warning he would cause a scene. Upon seeing Oxendine’s vehicle parked outside, he became enraged.

Oxendine reportedly fired warning shots at the ground when confronted, but as Bean approached him, he discharged his weapon multiple times. Bean ultimately fell to the ground, and police found a handgun nearby.

Currently, Oxendine is facing charges of first-degree murder in connection with Bean’s death. Bean had a commendable career, serving 20 years with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, where he was recognized posthumously for his significant contributions and leadership.