A Tragic Loss for a Reality TV Family: Remembering Harley Alexander Shirley
It’s with deep sorrow that we share the heartbreaking news of the loss of Harley Alexander Shirley, the 21-year-old son of Lizard Lick Towing stars Ronnie and Amy Shirley. Known for their reality TV series documenting their towing and repossession business, the Shirley family became beloved figures in the entertainment world. But behind the cameras and the laughs, they faced a devastating tragedy that shook not just their world, but the hearts of fans and community members alike.
The Shooting That Changed Everything
On February 17, 2022, Harley’s life was tragically cut short in a violent shooting in Garner, North Carolina. The incident unfolded after a memorial gathering for a friend who had tragically died in a car accident. Harley, along with a 20-year-old woman, was shot at a local gas station. Though the woman survived with life-altering injuries, Harley’s life ended far too soon.
Deputies responded to multiple reports of gunfire and found Harley slumped in his vehicle, a victim of senseless violence. The investigation soon revealed the complexity of the case, with several suspects arrested, ranging from teenagers to adults, charged with murder, attempted murder, and other related offenses. One of the defendants was convicted in 2024, receiving a 40-year sentence — a rare, significant consequence for a juvenile defendant involved in a fatal incident.
This loss was a bitter blow for the Shirley family, who had already been through so much in the public eye. Harley, who was more than just a reality TV figure, was a son, a brother, and a friend whose life ended in a violent, preventable act. The pain of losing him is something no family should ever endure.
Legacy of Faith, Strength, and Forgiveness
In the wake of this tragedy, the Shirley family has shown remarkable strength and resilience. Ronnie and Amy Shirley, known for their tough personas on TV, have shared heartfelt messages of faith, forgiveness, and empathy. Ronnie, in particular, has spoken out about the need for conversations around violence, particularly gun violence in small towns, and how the impact of such loss ripples through a community.
This tragedy also shines a light on a larger issue facing many communities across the country — the increasing rate of gun violence. While Lizard Lick Towing was a lighthearted show that brought entertainment into the homes of millions, the loss of Harley reminds us that reality TV stars are real people, facing real struggles and heartaches behind the scenes.
Fans and community members who had followed the Shirley family’s journey since the show aired on truTV