Four Teens Charged with Murder of 16-Year-Old at North Carolina House Party
Four teenagers have been arrested and charged in connection with the fatal shooting of a 16-year-old high school student at a house party in North Carolina, according to authorities. The incident occurred in the early hours of March 8 near the small town of Rowland, approximately 110 miles south of Raleigh.
Details of the Arrests and Charges
Law enforcement officials have taken into custody a 15-year-old, two 16-year-olds, and a 17-year-old in relation to the killing. The names of the suspects have not been publicly released due to their ages. They are facing serious charges including first-degree murder, attempted murder, and felony conspiracy, as reported by The Charlotte Observer.
The victim, identified as Keedon Lewis, was a student at Purnell Swett High School. He was fatally shot around 3 a.m. during the party. Investigators stated that the shooting took place in a field near his home, and the aftermath was reportedly shared on social media platforms.
Family and Community Reaction
Brandon Lewis, the father of the victim, expressed his anguish in an interview with WPDE. He revealed that the incident was broadcast on social media, specifically mentioning Snapchat. "They posted my kid on social media," he said. "They got my kid going around on Snapchat, laying in that field."
He made a heartfelt plea for an end to such violence, stating, "You don't need a gun. Put the gun down. In fact, be a man. The world just crazy right now in this. It's something that needs to come to an end."
Keedon Lewis was remembered in an online obituary as an 11th-grade student with a humorous, enthusiastic, and clever personality. He had a deep passion for hunting and fishing, which provided him with peace and reflected his character. The obituary also noted his love for riding vehicles, singing enthusiastically, and driving his truck.
Tributes from Friends and Authorities
Friends of Keedon Lewis shared their memories and grief. Zachariah Hunt described him as an "amazing person" who was "always making you smile." Another friend, David Fipps, lamented that life would "never going to be the same" without him.
Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins characterized the situation as heartbreaking. The Public Schools of Robeson County posted a tribute on Facebook, expressing deep sadness and requesting prayers for the family, school, and community during this difficult time. "Please join us in prayer for the family of Keedon Lewis, a Purnell Swett High School student who passed away recently," the statement read.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have been contacted for further comment regarding the case.
