Dr. Gwendolyn Lavonne Riddick was a respected and beloved OB/GYN who worked at UNC Women's Health at Eden, a UNC Health clinic. She was also a devoted mother of a 21 year old as well as an 8 month old. The 40 year old Dr’s life was cut short by a senseless act of violence. According to the Eden authorities Department, Dr. Riddick was found fatal injured by being struck by projectiles several times next to her car at Freedom Park, a popular family destination in Eden, North Carolina. She was rushed to UNC Health Rockingham hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. The suspect, John Michael Powell, was the father of her child and had an ongoing domestic dispute with her, possibly over child custody. He was arrested and charged with first-degree fatal injury and other offenses. Dr. Riddick's demise surprised and saddened her colleagues,

patients, friends and family. She was described as an extraordinary woman who made a difference in the lives of everyone she touched. She had a passion for helping women and delivering babies, and she had a bright smile and a warm personality. She had graduated from East Carolina University in 2004 and attended medical school in Virginia. She had joined UNC Women's Health at Eden in 2021 and quickly became a valued member of the team. UNC Health Rockingham issued a statement expressing its condolences and offering support to its staff and patients after the tragic loss. It also posted a tribute to Dr. Riddick on its social media page, saying: "We will remember her and the legacy of resilience and compassion she leaves behind. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones." Our condolences goes out to her family, friends and Patients.