Shelby, North Carolina – Phyllis Ruff is still grappling with the loss of her son, Timothy Ruff, who tragically lost his life in a shooting incident. Timothy, affectionately called “Tim” by his loved ones, was known for his gentle nature despite his imposing appearance.
Timothy Lamont Ruff, 50, lost his life in Shelby on March 29 when Jonathan Martzes Petty, 41, allegedly shot him multiple times following a verbal altercation. Petty, still at large, is considered armed and dangerous by the authorities.
Phyllis Ruff fondly remembers her son’s last visit before the tragic incident. Timothy had a passion for fishing and planned to cook fish on the day he met his untimely death. A devoted uncle to his nieces and nephews, he had a special bond with one of his nieces, always encouraging her to excel academically.
Timothy’s sudden demise comes after his recent release from a 20-year prison sentence in February 2022. Despite the challenges they faced, Phyllis cherished the time she got to spend with her son after his release. Timothy was known for his loyalty and his ability to impact those around him positively.
The news of Timothy’s death came as a shock to Phyllis, who received a call from her son Trimaine informing her of the tragic event. When she arrived at the scene, she was devastated to learn that her son had succumbed to his injuries. Phyllis expressed her deep grief and disbelief at the loss of her son, who had been shot five times.
Phyllis is now left with memories of her son, including his love for a particular Tupac song that he dedicated to her whenever it played. She finds it difficult to comprehend why someone would take her son’s life and is praying for justice to be served. Phyllis hopes that Petty will be apprehended soon, allowing her some semblance of closure and the opportunity to seek answers to why her son was killed.
Authorities are seeking Petty on charges of murder and possession of a firearm by a felon. Anyone with information on Petty’s whereabouts is urged to contact Capt. Seth Treadway at 704-484-6845. The community remains on alert as they endeavor to bring closure to the tragic loss of Timothy Ruff.