Anthony Yates
A judge sentenced a man from North Carolina to decades behind bars for his involvement in his mother’s death.
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What happened: According to a news release by the Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office, the incident occurred on June 12, 2023. A judge sentenced the suspect on October 7, 2025.
- Officers with the Kernersville Police Department responded to reports of a shooting and a possible break-in. When they arrived at 511 Country Club Road, they found a woman, 65-year-old Debra Fink, with a gunshot wound to her face. Emergency services rendered aid, but she died from her injuries.
- Authorities reveal that her son, Donald Frink, was also at the scene. He reportedly told officers someone broke into the house and shot his mom.
- Officers found a handgun on the floor in the home with an extended magazine. The news release claims that Debra was the registered owner, and she reported it stolen three months prior. Investigators also found a spent bullet casing in the house and a damaged door frame.
Witness Statements Punched Holes In The Suspect’s Story
Caught in a lie: Witnesses provided statements to law enforcement that contradicted Donald’s story. Bystanders reportedly saw him with the gun before and after the shooting, and nobody witnessed the alleged break-in.
- Authorities noted “multiple inconsistent statements” concerning Donald’s actions and whereabouts. He ultimately confessed that his story was false several days later. Per the news release, Donald also admitted he “manipulated the crime scene.” He reportedly kicked the door and confirmed the break-in never happened.
- The suspect revealed he was holding the weapon when it fired, but claimed the shooting was accidental. However, investigators believed this was also untrue, citing physical evidence.
- According to the news release, witnesses told authorities that Debra was afraid of her son. She was reportedly recovering from major knee surgery and could not stand or walk without assistance. They also claimed that Donald threatened his mom in the past, stole her money, and talked about shooting her.
- Investigators found his DNA on the handgun and gunshot residue on his hands. Per the news release, the defendant pleaded guilty to second-degree murder on October 7. Resident Senior Superior Court Judge David L. Hall sentenced him to 345-426 months behind bars.
