Brian Grant, a former Toronto Blue Jays draft pick, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder after allegedly shooting and killing a locksmith at his North Carolina home, according to authorities.
The stunning development has shocked both the baseball world and the quiet beach community of Oak Island, NC, where the deadly incident unfolded on Wednesday.
???? A Routine Service Call Turns Fatal
According to the Oak Island Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire at Grant’s residence on July 24, 2025. Upon arrival, authorities discovered 61-year-old Randy Stewart, a local locksmith, dead from a gunshot wound.
Investigators quickly identified Grant as the alleged shooter and took him into custody on the scene.
“The victim appeared to be providing locksmith services at the time of the incident,” police said in a brief statement.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and investigators have not released further details. Jail records show Grant, 40, is currently being held without bond.
???????? Who Was Randy Stewart?
Victim Randy Stewart was a well-known locksmith in the Oak Island area. Friends and clients describe him as a hardworking, kind man who often went the extra mile for customers.
“Randy was the kind of guy who could fix anything and always had a smile on his face,” one former client shared on Facebook.
“He didn’t deserve this.”
As of Thursday night, no family statement had been issued, but an outpouring of grief was growing across social media platforms, especially within the tight-knit North Carolina coastal community.
⚾ A Promising Career That Never Reached the Big Leagues
Brian Grant’s name may not be familiar to Major League Baseball fans, but in 2002, he was considered a promising young pitcher.
The Toronto Blue Jays selected him in the 7th round of the MLB Draft. Though he never made it to the majors, Grant spent five seasons in the minor leagues, showcasing his arm for several Blue Jays-affiliated teams:
- Medicine Hat Blue Jays
- Pulaski Blue Jays
- Auburn Doubledays
During his time in professional baseball, he logged a total of 169.2 innings, ending his career with a 4.72 ERA. While his playing days ended without fanfare, he remained a part of the Blue Jays’ extended baseball family.
⚖️ Legal Trouble Mounts
Now, Grant is making headlines for all the wrong reasons. His charge of second-degree murder means prosecutors believe the killing was intentional but not premeditated. In North Carolina, this charge can carry a sentence of up to life in prison.
Authorities have remained tight-lipped about the case, declining to confirm whether the shooting followed an argument or if mental health played a role.
???? A Quiet Community in Shock
The Oak Island community, known for its peaceful beaches and family-friendly vibe, is struggling to process the violence.
“It’s the kind of town where you leave your doors unlocked,” said one neighbor.
“To hear a locksmith was gunned down doing his job is horrifying.”
Residents are now asking how a former professional athlete could be involved in such a tragedy—and whether this incident could have been prevented.
???? Grant’s Post-Baseball Life Remained Under the Radar
Since stepping away from the mound, Grant had kept a low public profile. There’s little public information about his post-baseball life, with no major business ventures, coaching appearances, or interviews on record.
Social media profiles tied to his name have not been active, and it’s unclear if he was married, employed, or had children.
This lack of visibility makes the murder charge even more jarring for those who once followed his minor league career.
????⚖️ What’s Next in the Case?
As of now, Brian Grant has not entered a plea, and a court date has yet to be publicly scheduled. Legal experts say the next steps will likely involve a mental evaluation, formal arraignment, and a potential grand jury indictment.
???? Your Thoughts?
What do you think about this shocking twist in the life of a former pro athlete?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
???? Stay locked to The Pop Radar (TPR) for more updates on this developing story and other celebrity-related legal headlines.
