Charlotte, N.C. - Van Brett Watkins, a man who spent 20 years in prison for his involvement in a plot orchestrated by former Carolina Panthers player Rae Carruth to kill Carruth's pregnant girlfriend, has passed away. Watkins, 63, died on December 3rd from natural causes at a hospital, according to records from the state Department of Adult Correction.

Watkins, who had been incarcerated at Central Prison in Raleigh, was serving a sentence of over 50 years after pleading guilty to his role in Carruth's scheme to murder Cherica Adams in 1999. His charges included second-degree murder, conspiracy, and other offenses. Correction records indicate that Watkins' projected release date was set for 2045.

Both Watkins and another man were involved in the crime, with Watkins firing the shots and the other individual driving the vehicle. In exchange for their testimony, the pair pleaded guilty, revealing that Carruth had paid Watkins to carry out the act. Adams was shot while driving away from a shopping center and passed away several weeks later. Her son, who was born with disabilities via emergency Caesarean section, was raised by Adams' mother.

Carruth, a former wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers between 1997 and 1999, was acquitted of first-degree murder but was found guilty of conspiracy to commit murder and other charges. He received a sentence of 18 to 24 years in prison and was released in 2018.

Watkins' death, which was initially reported by local Charlotte television stations, brings closure to a tragic chapter in North Carolina's history. The incident surrounding Rae Carruth's involvement in the murder plot shocked the nation and left a lasting impact on the Carolina Panthers organization.

As news of Watkins' passing spreads, questions arise regarding the lasting consequences of this notorious case and its impact on the lives of those involved. The memory of Cherica Adams and her tragic death will forever remain a reminder of the darkness that can exist amidst the bright lights of professional sports.

The Department of Adult Correction is expected to release further details surrounding Watkins' passing in the coming days.